On August 27, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School hosted Olympic fencing champion Sun Yujie—also a faculty member of PKU’s Department of Physical Education—for an inspirational talk to its Class of 2025.
Sun Yujie recalled the glory of China’s first Olympic team gold in women’s epee. Everything starts over once you step off the podium, she said, reflecting on the years of repetitive, intense training behind each medal. She shared a story from the Junior World Championships: despite a painful shoulder injury during a match against an Italian fencer, she hid her pain, refused to show weakness, and won. That night, she found her blood-soaked shirt stuck to her skin—it had to be softened with warm water to be removed. All I thought was I cannot lose—I had to fight for my country, she said. Her story moved the audience, revealing the resilience and responsibility of a true athlete.
Sun Yujie
As a student-athlete at Peking University, Sun Yujie acknowledged the difficulty of balancing training and studies. Strict teachers produce outstanding students—no one lowered standards for me just because I’m an Olympic champion, she said. Having earned PKU’s Annual Student Figure Award, the May Fourth Medal, and Beijing Outstanding Graduate honors, she embodies the success of sports-academia integration. Sun clearly explained the differences between foil, épée, and sabre fencing, emphasizing: Fencing is a zero-sum game. It’s not only about winning—it’s also about learning to lose with grace. Every defeat teaches you to adjust, review, identify weaknesses, and come back stronger.She encouraged everyone to apply this review mindset to research and life: dare to try, learn from setbacks, and grow courage through reflection.
After the talk, still-engaged students eagerly raised their hands in the Q&A session, which Sun Yujie warmly hosted.
A Group photo
That afternoon, Olympic trampoline champion Dong Dong led a special session for new law students at Peking University Shenzhen.
Dong Dong
Throughout his 30-year career, Dong Dong competed in four Olympics, winning one gold, two silvers, and one bronze. He recalled the Beijing Games as his most memorable: Missing gold was painful, but it pushed me to improve. Learning from that loss, he refined his skills and mindset, and clinched gold in London. Dong advised students: Face challenges with persistent effort—that’s how you take charge of your life. He also shared childhood struggles in training, acknowledging his parents’ support and encouragement.
As a trampoline "Grand Slam" champion with Olympic gold, 12 World Championship titles, and multiple national wins, Dong Dong describes championship as the relentless pursuit of sportsmanship. He has channeled the resilience and open mindset forged in elite sports into shaping his own character. On his career, he believes in transcending the past and achieving new glory,while also accepting the natural limits of age.
Q&A
During a spirited Q&A, Dong Dong engaged law students in an in-depth exchange. His sincere sharing and insight deeply inspired all attending students.
