Jayce
Chou Tien-chen went to the hospital today after coughing up blood. After a thorough examination, it was confirmed that there was damage to his left lung and surrounding soft tissues, but no pneumothorax. He needs to rest for a week and avoid intense physical activity, but he is still expected to participate in the Taipei Open starting on September 3rd.
Reports indicate that during the warm-up for the semifinals at the Japan Open last week, Chou used a breathing resistance trainer. Due to a rushed schedule, his rapid breathing may have caused the injury. After experiencing pain in his left rib, physical therapist Gao Min-shan provided emergency treatment, which alleviated the condition enough for him to compete.
Chou Tien-chen stated, “Before the semifinals at the Japan Open against Kento Momota, I used the breathing resistance trainer because of the tight schedule. The fast breathing may have overextended my lungs, causing this injury. Every movement felt like an electric shock, which was very uncomfortable. I’m really thankful to have finished the final.”
At 34 years old, Chou Tien Chen has participated in 15 world tour events this year and won the Super 300 Thailand Masters in January, earning a reputation as a workhorse. This season, he has played 43 matches and accumulated 2,257 minutes on the court, both impressive statistics showcasing his extraordinary endurance.
