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A student from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has been ranked the world’s number one in men’s singles SH6 badminton. Chu Man-kai, a silver medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics recently won gold at the 2022 Para-Badminton World Championships in Tokyo, which saw him finish as the world’s top ranked player.

CUHK Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rocky S. Tuan said, “Man-kai’s victory in Tokyo sees him join the ranks of a growing cohort of successful athletes who have studied at CUHK. Man-kai has shown the attributes of outstanding sportsmanship, resilience and perseverance against formidable odds, which has become a hallmark of CUHK’s approach to physical education and is the very essence of our learning experience. CUHK salutes his achievements, and we will continue to redouble our efforts to provide flexible academic arrangements and a vibrant on-campus experience so more athletes can call CUHK home and deliver accolades for Hong Kong”.

Man-kai has been suffering from injuries to his right leg. He said after the World Championships, he wears “kinesiology tapes every day, and they bring me excruciating pain. Along with alcohol irritation, the frequent skin allergy is hard to bear. I am grateful for Kumar, my physiotherapist, who takes care of me in every possible way so that I can give my best performance in the arena.”

Man-kai entered CUHK’s Physical Education, Exercise Science & Health programme through the Student-Athlete Learning Support and Admission (SALSA) Scheme this year. “To strike a balance between studies and professional training is very challenging. I am thankful for all the support CUHK has given to me throughout the journey. It is my privilege to have met understanding teachers who provide me with unconditional academic support based on my training schedule,” he said.

SALSA aims to facilitate admission of student-athletes to the University based on their sporting talents. The University provides comprehensive academic support for different students according to their learning and employment needs, allowing them to pursue their dual careers as athletes and undergraduates. About the SALSA Scheme: https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/salsa/