Tokyo: South Korean swimmer Hwang Sun-woo is looking forward to returning to the Tokyo Aquatics Centre for the upcoming Asian Games, where all swimming events will be held. This venue holds special significance for Hwang, as it was the site of his international breakthrough during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Although he did not secure a medal at that time, he set an Asian record in the men's 100-meter freestyle and shattered an 11-year national record in the 200m freestyle, laying the groundwork for his ascent in international swimming.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Hwang has since accumulated an impressive collection of medals, including one gold, two silver, and one bronze at world championships, along with six medals from the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, where he claimed two golds. At a press conference held at the Jincheon National Training Center, Hwang expressed his eagerness to compete once more in Tokyo, saying, "That is the arena that made me the swimmer that I am today. And just as I did at the Tokyo Olympics, I really want to show everything I have this time."
Despite his accomplishments, Hwang faced challenges at the 2024 Paris Olympics, failing to qualify for the 200m freestyle final. Reflecting on this setback, he admitted to pushing himself too hard both physically and mentally in his quest for success. "After the Olympics, I decided to change my mental approach and have a fresh start," Hwang stated.
This change in mindset proved beneficial, as Hwang set an Asian record in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:43.92 last October at the National Sports Festival. He has also performed well in other domestic and international competitions. Looking ahead to this year's Asian Games, Hwang feels relaxed and confident, having achieved his desired results at the previous games in Hangzhou. "I am not feeling much pressure this time. I just want to be able to execute things I have been practicing," he noted.
Hwang is set to compete in the 100m and 200m freestyle races, as well as the 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle relays. He is determined to win medals in each event and improve his personal records. "In the 200m freestyle, I think if I can get into the 1 minute and 43 seconds range, it should be good enough for gold," he said.
South Korea is the reigning Asian Games champion in the 4x200m freestyle relay, having set an Asian record of 7:01.73. However, China has since surpassed this with a time of 7:00.91. Hwang anticipates a close race for the relay title among South Korea, China, and Japan. "I think it will come down to whose swimmers feel the best on the day of the race and how good their chemistry is," he remarked. Despite China's current record, Hwang remains optimistic about his team's chances, stating, "I think we also have a shot."