And they were, in this moment of defeat by a team from a political rival, not even allowed the comfort of their homeland’s name and flag. To be an Olympian from Taiwan is to not exist, at least not officially. To placate China, the island competes at the Games under the awkward designation of Chinese Taipei. “I’m only fighting for myself, through my own hard work,” said Taiwan’s Chen Szu-yu, substituting self for state on the Olympic stage. Her teammate Chien Tung-chuan sidestepped the political discussion entirely, refraining from comment on Taiwan’s status at the Olympics.

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Persons: “, ”, Taiwan’s Chen Szu, Chien Tung, chuan Organizations: Games, Team China, Olympics Locations: Paris, Taiwan, China, Taipei