Jincheon: Admittedly only halfway back from her recent knee surgery, South Korean diver Kim Su-ji contemplated skipping the upcoming world championships in Singapore. But the 27-year-old has never shied away from challenges and adversity, and she wasn't about to do it this summer.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim expressed her determination at a press conference at the Jincheon National Training Center, emphasizing her love for challenges. The diving competition at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships begins on July 26. Kim, who is the most successful South Korean diver in world championships history with three bronze medals, views her recent injury as just another challenge rather than a setback.
Kim achieved her first bronze medal in the women's 1-meter springboard event in 2019 in Gwangju. Last year in Doha, she added to her accolades with a bronze in the 3m springboard and another in the mixed 3m synchronized event with her partner Yi Jae-gyeong. Despite contemplating retirement after her surgery, Kim has chosen to stay positive and continue her diving career. She plans to compete only in the 1m springboard event, leaving Yi to find a new partner for the synchronized events.
Yi Jae-gyeong remains optimistic about his prospects, stating that he is surrounded by talented teammates. He believes that with the right chemistry, they will be able to contend for a medal.