Tianjin, China, August 6, 2026: Chinese volleyball ace Li Yingying has confirmed that she will miss the upcoming AVC Women's Volleyball Continental Championship and Asian Games after undergoing heart surgery, Xinhua News reports.
"I had to undergo surgery due to cardiac issues. The operation was a success and I have now been discharged from hospital to recover at home,” Li said on her social media.
“Following a comprehensive assessment, I will not take part in the AVC Women's Volleyball Continental Championship or the Asian Games.
"I feel deeply disappointed, yet health will always come first. Moving forward, I will focus on the rehabilitation and gradually get back into shape. I wish the national team every success in the competitions. I look forward to returning to the court once I make a full recovery," she added.
The left-handed spiker has been dealing with injuries in recent years, which also forced her to temporarily give up the opportunity to play overseas last year.
The 26-year-old ace had been training with the national team since early April but did not feature in any subsequent matches.
The AVC Women's Volleyball Continental Championship opens on August 21 in Tianjin, with the winner securing a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 20th Asian Games will take place in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4.