Veteran Soft Tennis Star Seo Kwon Claims First National Title at Age 36: What’s Next for His Career?
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At 36, veteran Seo Kwon — the second-oldest active soft tennis player in South Korea — leaned on experience and grit to capture the men’s singles crown at the 104th Dong-A Ilbo National Soft Tennis Championships.
Seo defeated Jeong Jeong-il (Suwon City Hall) 4-2 in the men’s open singles final on the 9th at the Mungyeong International Soft Tennis Stadium in Mungyeong, North Gyeongsang Province.
Seo already boasts an impressive résumé — including six national sports festival titles and numerous other victories — but this was his first gold at the country’s longest-running tournament, adding extra weight to the achievement.
“I’m thrilled to win at this stage of my career and finally claim this title,” Seo said. “During the final, my coach and teammates believed in me and their support helped me deliver a strong performance.”
He added, “Because of my age, I focused on staying competitive physically by training four nights a week, and that consistency paid off.”
“I expect to maintain my form through next year without problems.”
Seo was referring to the World Championships scheduled for September 2027 in Mungyeong, South Korea.
His stated final goal is to get through the February selection trials, represent South Korea at the World Championships and finish on the podium.
“I think the World Championships next year will be my last tournament as a player. I’ll do everything I can to prepare and make sure I reach that goal,” Seo said.
Seo Gyu-jae, head coach of the Incheon Metropolitan City Sports Council, said, “Seo was disappointed earlier this season after falling short at key moments, including the Asian Games selection trials, but this victory has shattered that barrier. He trains harder than anyone, so I’m confident he’ll achieve his final goal and end his career on a high note.”
Meanwhile, the Incheon Metropolitan City Sports Council finished third in the men’s open team event.
/Reporter Lee Jong-man malema@incheonilbo.com
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