IFBB Men's Physique Pro, Chongchong.
Looking strictly at his recent contest results, it is true that they were unsatisfactory. The outcomes on stage were cold and unforgiving, accompanied by criticism that he fell short of expectations. However, the sport of bodybuilding is by no means a world where an athlete's value can be judged solely by results.
Anyone who knows the process Chongchong goes through to step on stage cannot easily pass judgment. Even amidst repeated setbacks, each time he has built his physique anew, tightened his diet again, and prepared to stand on stage once more. Despite the backstage agony, anxiety, and endless self-doubt, he never halted his challenge.
The worse the results, the more difficult it is to step on stage. Even so, Chongchong did not run away. Carrying failure with him, he chose to face the lights once more and stand before the judges again. Only those who have taken on the challenge know just how heavy that choice is.
And so we must ask.
How could anyone easily cast stones at his endeavor?
Those who have never stepped on stage can never truly understand that lengthy preparation process and psychological pressure. Those who have not even dared to challenge themselves have no right to speak of its weight.
Chongchong is already an IFBB Men's Physique Pro. Through the journey it took to reach that position alone, he is an athlete who deserves ample respect. His current results are not everything, and his story is far from over.
At this very moment, what is needed is encouragement rather than criticism.
To Chongchong, who refuses to give up and continues to push forward, all we need to say is this:
“It is okay. And keep going.”