2026 Milano-Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Olympics finished, there is growing interest in China over the whereabouts of Lin Xiaojun (30, Korean name Im Hyo-jun).
NetEase, Inc. reported on the 24th that Lin Xiaojun received a shocking result—eliminated in the semifinals of all short-track events at this competition—and has been criticized as "having lost fighting spirit" and "should retire," and that speculation about his future moves continues.
Lin Xiaojun actually mentioned his future plans in interviews with Korean media after the competition ended. Lin Xiaojun addressed the retirement rumors, saying "while competing in this event I felt a desire to do it again," revealing his intention to extend his career as an athlete.
In particular, he said, "For now I want to rest a bit, but I want to prepare again and enjoy racing as an athlete," strongly hinting at the real possibility of a comeback aiming for the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps.
But that outlet predicted future scenarios, saying Lin Xiaojun possesses "three powerful cards to withstand the post-Milan era." Above all, the analysis was based on the premise that Lin Xiaojun has lost his prime form.
However, it excluded the theory of a return to Korea as "nearly impossible." The reason given was that, given the sentiment in Korea's sports community, there is little chance of making room again for a player who changed nationality to win medals for another country.
First, Lin Xiaojun is guaranteed a stable status in terms of identity. It explained that Lin Xiaojun is not simply a mercenary but a formally registered athlete belonging to Hebei province and can operate within the system.
Next, it emphasized that Lin Xiaojun is recognized by the government for the achievements he has officially accumulated. Since naturalizing to China, Lin Xiaojun has already accumulated considerable political capital, such as last year's Asian Games gold medal. That means he cannot be easily cast aside because of one or two poor performances.
The final card was Lin Xiaojun's huge and unique "idol-level fandom." It said that even fans who do not know short-track rules but follow Lin Xiaojun as an individual will serve as a solid support that maintains his commercial value regardless of results.
It particularly predicted that this fandom would become a powerful asset allowing Lin Xiaojun to work as an advertising model or broadcaster even if he quits his athletic career after retirement.
The outlet forecasted that the most realistic exit for Lin Xiaojun would be a "transition to a leader." It said that having entered his 30s, Lin Xiaojun no longer shows the explosive power at the very top of the world physically, and from his slow acceleration on the straightaway and becoming easily fatigued, one can feel the "passage of time."
Ultimately, it explained that the best approach would be for Lin Xiaojun, who possesses world-class technical skills and tactical understanding, to work as a coach for the Hebei team while occasionally participating in domestic competitions.
[OSEN]