Lin Xiaojun of China competes in the men's 500m final during the ISU World Short Track Speed Skating Championships 2024 at AHOY Arena on March 16, 2024 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Photo: VCG

Short track speed skater Lin Xiaojun proved his mettle in the 500 meters at the world championships on Saturday by winning the race in 41.592 seconds. 

Representing domestic short track powerhouse Heilongjiang, Lin failed to grab any win at the National Winter Games held earlier this year. 

He even reacted dejectedly in the 1,500 meters race by smashing his helmet onto the rink after finishing fourth in the final. He was later given a warning by the Chinese Skating Association. 

At the previous world championships held in Seoul, South Korea in 2023, Lin was the first man to cross the finish line in the men's 500-meter race, but was penalized due to an equipment violation penalty because he wasn't wearing a transponder.

"Lin has finally proved his mettle as the fans were increasing skeptical about his capabilities, especially after the National Games incident," Mao Jiale, a Chengdu-based sports commentator, told the Global Times. "The win is also a confidence booster for him to compete for China."

Before transferring to China in 2021, Lin, formerly known as Lim Hyo-jun, had won the 1,000 and 1,500 meters titles at the world championships. He was also an Olympic champion in 1,500 meters in 2018.

Lin's Chinese national teammate Sun Long won the men's 1,500 meters in 2:23.009 seconds. It marks the 23-year-old's first gold medal at a world championship and the 100th gold medal for China at the world championships

Sun was not the first man to cross the line. South Korean skater Hwang Dae-heon finished the race first but was penalized for a rule violation.

"This is the charm of short track speed skating. There are many unexpected incidents on the ice, so it's crucial to promptly analyze each collision, identify the issues, and strive to avoid accidents in the next race," Sun told reporters after the win. 

"It's essential to maintain a broad field of vision on the ice, observing the position of each opponent."

The duo also propelled the men's 5,000 meters relay team into the final, which will be held later on Sunday.