Here is Zhu Ting’s full statement:
“Today, April 8, 2024, I officially confirmed with the Chinese Volleyball Association that I will return to the national team during the FIVB Volleyball Nations League.
“The sole purpose of my return is to contribute to securing a spot for the Chinese women's volleyball team at the Paris Olympics. I will devote myself fully to training and competition, refraining from any commercial activities or endorsements during my time with the national team to avoid distractions and misunderstandings.
“From the end of last year until the Chinese New Year, I experienced fatigue and a significant decline in athletic performance, to the point where I struggled to cope with daily matches. Moreover, relentless rumours and attacks on social media since the Tokyo Olympics have not only affected me, but also my family. At one point, I even lost interest in volleyball and sought to distance myself from controversies, leading me to submit a retirement application to the Henan Sports Bureau.
“Upon learning of my intention to retire, officials from the Henan Sports Bureau, the General Administration of Sports in China, and the national team showed great concern. They communicated with me multiple times, offering encouragement and support. Over the past two years, my mentor, Lang Ping, encouraged me numerous times to return to the national team and continue representing my country. During my lowest moments, she helped analyze my physical and technical issues and urged me to improve my fitness.
“With the support of various parties, I dispelled thoughts of retirement, intensified my physical training, and improved my athletic performance. The boost in my confidence from this improvement has helped me emerge from my slump. Now, I feel physically and mentally prepared, which is why I officially confirmed my return to the national team today, ready to represent my country once again. I express my gratitude to everyone who has supported and encouraged me during this time.
“Next, I will strive to perform well in the remaining matches of the Italian Serie A league this season. Subsequently, I will focus on recovering my fitness, catching up with the national team's pace, and wholeheartedly engaging in training and competition. Together with the team, I will exert all efforts to secure a spot for the Chinese women's volleyball team at the Paris Olympics.”