Recently, during the River Source Cup Football Invitational Tournament held in Yushu, Qinghai Province, player Tsewang Phuntsok lifted his jersey after scoring to reveal the words on his undershirt: “Stay Strong, Gyirong. We Stand with You. May the Deceased Rest in Peace.” The heartfelt gesture moved spectators at the venue and viewers watching on screen.

Tsewang Phuntsok and his teammates observe a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in the Gyirong mudslide disaster. Photo: Screenshot of the live broadcast 

The moment came during the match, when Tsewang Phuntsok’s goal gave his team the lead. His gesture quickly sparked discussion on social media, with netizens sharing clips from the match and expressing their concern for the Gyirong disaster area. 

After the match, Tsewang Phuntsok said, “I was deeply saddened when I learned about the mudslide disaster in Xigaze. After scoring today, I did not celebrate as I normally would. I just hope that Gyirong in Xigaze will get better and better. Football is our common language, but at this moment, I want to use it to express my love and support for my hometown.” 

The Nagqu football team unfurls a banner expressing support for Gyirong. 

Editor：Bella Wu