NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) on Thursday (Aug. 8) expressed unwavering support for Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷), emphasizing the rigorous scrutiny she had undergone and highlighting that she is "Taiwan's daughter, New Taipei's daughter."
Lin Yu-ting made history early Thursday morning by defeating Turkish opponent Esra Yildiz Kahraman 5-0, becoming the first Taiwanese boxer to reach an Olympic gold medal match.
Kahraman raised her hands in an "X" gesture after the match, seemingly mocking Lin's gender controversy. Hou criticized the act, calling it "completely unsportsmanlike." "Go for it! Bring home the championship on Aug. 11 and silence all doubters," stated Hou.
The New Taipei City Government hosted a live viewing party at 2:30 a.m. on Thursday, drawing over 200 supporters. Lin's mother attended and expressed gratitude for the widespread support, stating that she was touched by the scene of so many fans supporting her daughter.
Hou highlighted Lin's 15-year boxing journey, noting the hardships she overcame with family support and encouragement from coaches. He believed that nothing could stop Lin's determination to win the gold.
After securing her spot in the gold medal match, Lin spoke via video call with Hou and her mother. Lin expressed her appreciation to the fans for their support and stated that she was unfazed by the gender controversy, focusing only on securing the ultimate glory for her nation.
