Singapore paddler Yu Mengyu announces retirement after 16-year career

Singapore’s national paddler Yu Mengyu has hung up her bat after an illustrious 16-year career which saw her win medals at the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games. 

Mengyu made an official announcement at the Singapore Table Tennis Association’s (STTA) Annual Awards Night on Tuesday (Mar 22), where she was recognised as the SSTA Star Player of the Year 2021.

“Today, it’s the time to say goodbye, this is a very important moment in my life. Looking back through the past 16 years in my athletic career, it is full of touching moments and honours,” said Mengyu in a Facebook post on Tuesday. 

Mengyu’s last international competition took place last August at the Tokyo Olympics where she suffered a thigh injury in her semi-finals clash with China’s world number one Chen Meng.

Despite losing the bout against Chen Meng and her subsequent match against Japan’s Mima Ito in the third-place play off, Mengyu won the hearts of Singaporeans for her grit and resilience. 

Mengyu was also part of the team of five that clinched gold at the 2010 World Championships in Moscow, Russia. She was presented with a $29,752.96 cheque at the STTA on Tuesday for her role in the victory. 

Nevertheless, Mengyu’s affinity with the sport has not come to an end. She has been appointed assistant coach for the STTA junior development squad for high potential athletes aged nine to 12 years old.

“From now on, I will open a new chapter of my life, adhere to tenacious and indomitable sportsmanship, and convey more positive energy to others and the society,” Mengyu added.