Holistic Development of He Bingjiao: Pursuing Philosophy and Language Skills Off the Court

Jayce September 6, 2024 8 0

On April 17th, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) officially announced that He Bingjiao is a remarkably well-rounded female athlete. Not only is she an outstanding player, but she also dedicates herself to acquiring knowledge and skills beyond the badminton court. In addition to rigorous training and a demanding competition schedule, He Bingjiao spends her leisure time studying English and delving into philosophical works, including those of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato.

“Although I am an athlete, I also aspire to be a better person. I enjoy reading philosophical books during my rest time. During last year’s World Championships and the Japan Open, I was reading works by Plato,” said the 26-year-old.

The young player believes that studying philosophy allows her to gain deeper insights into the world and the people around her. This is particularly beneficial for athletes who often deal with high-pressure situations and complex interpersonal relationships. Through philosophical study, athletes can learn critical thinking and communicate more effectively.

Learning English enables players to communicate with fans from different parts of the world, which is crucial. “I watch English movies and TV shows, and listen to English songs. When someone speaks to me slowly in English, I can understand them fluently,” she added.

He Bingjiao’s dedication to mastering English is evident. She continues to take classes and practices whenever possible. “While training in China, I study English with my teacher; when we travel abroad for competitions, I do simple exercises like vocabulary drills. Being in England is a great opportunity for practice.”

“I remember my first post-match interview in English at the French Open. I was very nervous, but I improve my English skills every day,” she recalled.

He Bingjiao, the champion of the Denmark Open, has become a role model not only for her relentless pursuit on the court but also for her commitment to knowledge and self-improvement, inspiring anyone aiming to maximize their potential.