From before he even knew what it was, badminton was a part of Jack Yu’s life, a legacy that his family has a long history with. With his debut Commonwealth Games under his belt, Jack is October’s Emerging Athlete of the Month.
His mother, He Tian Tang (Tang Yongshu) won bronze representing Australia at the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games, as well Olympic and World Championship medals while representing China.
His father, Yu Qi also played badminton for the Chinese national team, while sister Angela Yu recently joined Jack at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, where she competed in the Team Event, Mixed and Women’s Doubles.
For Jack, the Games were an incredible experience, and one that allowed him to compete against some of the best on the world stage.
“I really enjoyed the Commonwealth Games,” said Yu.
“My most memorable moment was playing against India in the Team Event in the Doubles. My partner and I, we had a really good fight and to play a pair at such a high level was great and definitely enjoyable for me.”
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Having recently competed at his second BWF World Junior Championships, Yu is keen to make his mark on the international stage.
“It has definitely helped me find where I’m at compared to the international standard. It’s given me a lot more confidence since I was able to play against some top countries and it’s given me that approval”
Meanwhile, it’s undeniable that Yu has his sights set firmly on the years to come, with some challenging competitions ahead for 2023.
“I’ve been preparing for the upcoming Oceania Championships, and I’d love to have a good result there, and later on, the Sudirman Cup, I want to represent my country out on the court.”
Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) congratulates Jack on a successful Birmingham campaign.
CGA has a focus on supporting emerging talent and celebrating the next generation of Australian sport stars.
Over the course of 2022, an athlete will be recognised each month as the Commonwealth Games Australia emerging athlete of the month and will receive a $500 gift certificate as a contribution towards their training expenses.
Three finalists from the monthly winners will be invited to the 2023 Commonwealth Games Australia Presidents Function where one will be named the Commonwealth Games Australia Emerging Athlete of the Year.
The annual winner, selected by the Awards Sub Committee will receive a $5000 CGA scholarship toward their sporting career.
