Lausanne (SUI), 1 September 2025 — When the clock ticked down in Chengdu, during The World Games 2025, and the pressure was at its peak, Ying-Ting Huang (TPE) delivered. With a last-second shot in the final against the Netherlands, just days after scoring the Golden Goal in the semifinal against Belgium, the Chinese Taipei star etched his name into The World Games history books. His amazing performances in the Beach Korfball tournament have now earned him the title of Athlete of the Month for August 2025.
Reflecting on those decisive moments, Huang said it was all about trust and instinct.
“In the dying moments against Belgium, our original game plan was to target the female matchups. But as the clock wound down, no clear opening appeared,” he recalled. “A senior teammate trusted me with the ball, and in that perfect moment where timing, trust, and instinct came together, I pulled the trigger. The shot dropped.”
Against the Netherlands, it was a similar story of composure under pressure.
“I calculated that if I released the ball with two seconds left, even a miss would leave the Dutch with no chance to respond,” Huang explained. “When it swished through, it wasn’t just the end of the match—it was proof of our team’s relentless fight until the very last second.”
Staying cool under pressure
Beach Korfball is a sport of fine margins, but Huang credits preparation and team spirit for his ability to stay calm when the stakes are highest.
“On a beach korfball court, there’s almost no room for error. That’s why in training we drill so much on clean passing and sharp movement,” he said. “Before every match, I tell myself: ‘We’re a team.’ No one is the star—every role matters equally. That mindset lifts the pressure and helps us support one another all the way.”
Though his goals sealed the victories, Huang was quick to underline that korfball is never a solo achievement.
“Yes, I happened to score the golden goals, but every step leading up to them was paved by my teammates, coaches, and staff,” he stressed. “The gold medal wasn’t mine. It was ours.”
He also highlighted korfball’s unique role as a mixed-gender sport:
“Unlike most sports that separate men and women, korfball’s mixed format feels natural and truly equal. Women can do everything men can, and they prove it with the same intensity and skill. That’s the beauty of korfball—it’s not just a sport, it’s a real expression of equality.”
Athlete of the Month recognition
Being named Athlete of the Month is a moment Huang treasures.
“This recognition feels like a milestone in my life,” he said. “Many people will only remember those last-second goals, but behind them is the hard work of an entire team. To the young players back home: I hope you find your stage, chase your dreams with courage, and believe that your moment will come.”
Looking ahead
While savouring the gold medal in Chengdu, Huang remains focused on the future.
“Right now, our team is still living in this dream—it almost doesn’t feel real. But standing on the top of the podium also means the next challenge will be even tougher,” he said. “We’ve made history once, but to repeat or surpass it will take even more effort. Moving forward, I’ll keep grinding and chasing greater goals, together with this amazing team.”