Chen Guanyu, a veteran of the Top 12 and three dynasties, burst into tears and said “I don’t want to forget today”.
Taiwan‘s baseball team won the world’s top 12 championship. Chen Guanyu, a 34-year-old pitcher, was emotional after the victory. He expressed gratitude for the chance to play, saying, “I don’t want to forget today.” Chen Guanyu is the oldest player on the team and has participated in all three championships since 2015.
In this tournament, the Taiwanese team moved from ninth place to fifth place in 2019, and finally to winning the championship this year. Chen Guanyu acknowledged the improvement of younger players, stating they helped him reach this moment. He felt unsure about future selections for the national team, saying, “This memory is very beautiful.”
During the tournament, the Taiwanese team surprised many by defeating Japan’s top lineup. Chen Guanyu mentioned the challenges faced by the team and described the experience as fulfilling. He has worked in Japan for the past ten years and did not expect such success.
How has Chen Guanyu’s leadership influenced the younger players on the Taiwanese baseball team?
Exclusive Interview: Chen Guanyu Reflects on Taiwan’s Triumph at the Championship
News Directory 3 sat down with Chen Guanyu, the emotional veteran pitcher of the Taiwanese baseball team, following their historic victory at the top 12 championship. At 34, Chen is the eldest on a roster that has captured the world’s attention with their remarkable journey.
Chen, congratulations on the championship! How are you feeling after such an incredible achievement?
Thank you! It’s overwhelming and deeply emotional. Winning the championship is something I’ve dreamed about for years. I don’t want to forget today—it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.
You have been part of this team since 2015. Can you share how you’ve seen the team evolve over the years?
Absolutely. When I joined the team, we struggled, finishing ninth in 2015, and then improving to fifth place in 2019. The growth we’ve shown, especially this year, is incredible. The younger players have stepped up and played a vital role in our success. Their talent and energy have really pushed the team forward.
You mentioned feeling uncertain about the future of your selection. Can you elaborate on that?
Yes, I’ve been reflecting a lot on my journey. While I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, I understand that younger players are rising. This memory of winning is beautiful, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute. Whether I’m selected for future games, I’ll always support the team.
The victory over Japan’s top lineup was a standout moment. What was that experience like?
It was honestly surreal. We faced enormous challenges, but the team came together and executed perfectly. I didn’t expect such success, especially after playing in Japan for the past ten years. It was fulfilling to see our hard work pay off.
You pitched remarkably well in the championship, going 5.2 innings without allowing a run. What does that mean to you?
Thank you! I owe so much to my teammates. Their support kept me focused. It’s a collective effort, and I’m just grateful for everyone who believed in me. Those innings were some of the best moments of my career.
With an average age of 24.5, this is the youngest team in the tournament’s history. How do you feel about the dynamic of the team?
It’s fantastic! The youthfulness brings so much energy and enthusiasm. They are incredibly talented, and I believe it bodes well for the future of Taiwanese baseball. Under Coach Chen Zixian’s leadership, we’ve built a remarkable team dynamic that has led us to this victory.
what’s next for you and the team after this championship triumph?
For now, we’ll celebrate this victory together. It’s important to recognise our achievements and the hard work we put in. As for the future, I’ll take it one step at a time. Whatever comes next, I will always cherish this experience. Thank you for the support!
Chen Guanyu’s emotional reflections highlight the dedication, teamwork, and spirit that carried the Taiwanese baseball team to their championship victory. With hopes for the future, the team stands strong, united by the memories of their remarkable journey.
The Taiwanese pitchers performed strongly in the championship. Chen Guanyu praised his teammates’ abilities and expressed appreciation for their support. He pitched 5.2 innings without allowing a run, stating, “Thank you all for believing in me.”
The Taiwanese team features an average age of 24.5, making it the youngest team to reach this level. Under the leadership of coach Chen Zixian, the team achieved its goal and won four individual awards, making him a notable figure in the tournament.