Source:REUTERS/Kabir Jhangiani
[Saba Sports News] Right after the Asian Badminton Team Championships, South Korean badminton player An Se-young, who claimed the women’s singles title, gave an interview to the media. She held up her wristband to the camera, and the detail of a red string on it was zoomed in on. She then revealed a secret about this wristband.
An Se-young shared that the red string was a gift from her grandmother. She keeps this red string as her secret weapon tucked inside her wristband, hoping to carry her grandmother’s blessings and gain more confidence on the court. For An Se-young, this red string is more than just a so-called lucky charm; it embodies her grandmother’s care and well wishes. Keeping this warmth close by allows her to find strength when feeling tense, helping her stay more focused and self-assured. Simply put, it’s a way for her to regulate herself.
Like many athletes who have their own little rituals, An Se-young’s quirk is just filled with the warmth of family love. Sports arenas are not just about winning and losing. These little warm touches hidden in the details make competitive sports all the more touching, and they let us see the ordinary human warmth behind the glory of being a champion.