Yu Zidi: Young Chinese Swimmer Shines at Asian Games

The 13-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi has taken the Asian Games by storm, but when it comes to the intense interest around her, she is in no doubt about what feels toughest.

“Interviews are way harder than the race,” she said.

Yu’s time of 2min 06.10sec in scorching to victory in the medley was the fastest in the world this year, a staggering mark for a swimmer who is still at school. She finished just 0.40sec outside the world record held by Canada’s Summer McIntosh, underlining how quickly she has arrived at the very top of the event.

She turns 14 next month. The spotlight has come early, and she is not entirely comfortable in it.

In the mixed zone, Yu has tried to slip past reporters after her latest eye-catching wins, ducking the cameras that now track her every move. When she is finally persuaded to stop, the teenager speaks quietly, choosing her words with care and a hint of panic.

“How do I answer this question? Can you teach me? You just want me to say what I feel?” she asked journalists in Chinese this week, exposing a vulnerability that contrasts sharply with her ruthless efficiency in the pool.

The contrast is striking. In the water, Yu attacks the medley with a fearlessness that has stunned seasoned observers. Out of it, she giggles, fidgets and looks for an escape route.

Asked if facing the media was the hardest part of her new life, she did not hesitate.

“Every time I just want to float off somewhere else,” she replied, laughing.

On current evidence, the only place she is really floating is away from the rest of the field.