https://www.scmp.com/rss/518883/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Chinese badminton star Zheng Siwei has announced his retirement at the age of 27, saying he does not want to be only defined as an “Olympic champion” and “achieving more titles holds little appeal to me”. Zheng won gold in mixed doubles at the Paris Olympics, three years after picking up silver at the Tokyo Games. He was one of the 65 Chinese Olympians who visited Hong Kong in August to share their experiences with residents. The three-time world champion, who plays with Huang Yaqiong, will... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3288615/chinese-olympic-gold-medallist-zheng-retirement-shock-says-titles-hold-little-appeal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3288615/chinese-olympic-gold-medallist-zheng-retirement-shock-says-titles-hold-little-appeal?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Nov 2024 04:28:42 +0000 Former Chinese gymnast Wu Liufang has been slammed by compatriot and Olympic champion Guan Chenchen for posting viral “thirst trap” videos on social media that led to her account being partially banned on Sunday. Wu uploaded videos of her dancing in short shorts, mini skirts and stockings that racked up tens of thousands of likes on Douyin – China’s TikTok – and which were later taken down. Guan said that Wu’s “sexy” dancing videos were disrespectful. Wu’s account was later banned from accepting... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3287986/ex-chinese-gymnast-wu-blasted-olympic-champion-guan-posting-sexy-videos-online?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3287986/ex-chinese-gymnast-wu-blasted-olympic-champion-guan-posting-sexy-videos-online?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 25 Nov 2024 06:00:31 +0000 Zheng Qinwen needs to improve her concentration, cut out inconsistencies in her game and capitalise on her killer serve if she is going to sign off a career-defining season by winning the WTA Finals, a Chinese tennis expert has suggested. Should Zheng beat American Coco Gauff in Riyadh on Saturday night, she will become the second woman to win an Olympic gold medal and the end-of-season crown, a feat previously only accomplished by Serena Williams in 2012. Zheng sealed her place in the final... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3285902/key-zheng-qinwen-beating-coco-gauff-wta-finals-lies-killer-serve-cutting-out-mistakes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3285902/key-zheng-qinwen-beating-coco-gauff-wta-finals-lies-killer-serve-cutting-out-mistakes?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 Nov 2024 11:03:38 +0000 Diving superstar Quan Hongchan and controversial record-breaking swimmer Pan Zhanle will be among 65 mainland Chinese Olympians from the Paris Games visiting Hong Kong next week following their triumph. The athletes and eight coaches represent 16 different sporting events, including table tennis, swimming, diving, gymnastics and weightlifting, the government revealed on Friday. The three-day visit starting on August 29 will see the group participate in three public events. The first is the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3275708/olympic-stars-quan-hongchan-pan-zhanle-join-team-china-athletes-visiting-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3275708/olympic-stars-quan-hongchan-pan-zhanle-join-team-china-athletes-visiting-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:08:00 +0000 The Olympic Games in Paris this summer were a triumph for France. Some 10,500 athletes turned up, representing 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team. As always, the Games showcased the diversity of athletes worldwide and were a fitting testament to the human spirit and pursuit of excellence. I watched the track and field events at the 80,000-seat Stade de France and the incredible atmosphere and camaraderie between athletes and their supporters across different... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3275380/olympics-triumph-paris-and-inspiration-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3275380/olympics-triumph-paris-and-inspiration-all?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Aug 2024 01:30:12 +0000 Chinese President Xi Jinping met the country’s Olympic heroes at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday, and praised them for their performance and sportsmanship throughout the Paris Games. Xi said the athletes had “won glory for the country and people”, and told an audience including the likes of gold-winning swimmer Pan Zhanle, gold-carrying diver Quan Hongchan and Zheng Qinwen, who took home gold in singles tennis, to continue striving for success to further establish China as a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3275243/china-president-xi-praises-olympians-winning-glory-country-and-people?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3275243/china-president-xi-praises-olympians-winning-glory-country-and-people?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Aug 2024 15:46:45 +0000 A question asked by Zhang Yufei spotlighted the issue of how China’s sporting prowess is viewed around the world. As battle lines were drawn between China and the Western world following Pan Zhanle’s staggering swim for Olympic 100 metres freestyle gold, teammate Zhang, who claimed four bronze medals in Paris, wanted to know, “why are Chinese athletes questioned when they swim fast, but no one dared to question [Michael] Phelps or [Katie] Ledecky’.” China finished with 40 gold medals at the 2024... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274273/olympics-shows-china-still-has-mountain-climb-earn-wests-respect-sporting-arena?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274273/olympics-shows-china-still-has-mountain-climb-earn-wests-respect-sporting-arena?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Aug 2024 09:30:10 +0000 With special ceremonies and official launches for team kits, Olympic athletes take their look seriously. And even more so in 2024 with the Games taking place in one of the fashion capitals of the world. From striking team uniforms to dazzling personal style, there were plenty of fashion statements throughout the Summer Olympics. And here are some of our favourites. Best team uniform Just go ahead and give them them the🥇now for best uniform! 🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/6sOfMdt8Uo — Michael Johnson... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274281/paris-olympics-fashion-statements-turkish-south-korean-shooters-bright-trunks-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274281/paris-olympics-fashion-statements-turkish-south-korean-shooters-bright-trunks-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Aug 2024 07:00:12 +0000 The sporting world came crashing back down to Earth with a collective bump on Monday, ready to shake off the hangover of a two-week Olympic party in Paris and face the realities of what lies ahead. For France, that was a return to the domestic troubles largely swept under the rug while it played host to the world, for Los Angeles it marked the start of a four-year countdown to staging the next Games, and for mainland China and Hong Kong it was about ensuring the gold and glory won by their teams... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274236/paris-olympics-hangover-begins-all-eyes-la-and-planning-greater-success?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274236/paris-olympics-hangover-begins-all-eyes-la-and-planning-greater-success?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 14:39:23 +0000 The Olympic Games offer a platform for some of the world’s most fierce competition, but amid the scraps and the tussles, Paris also made us cheer for humanity itself. There were moments that transcended the results on score sheets and the shattered records. Whether it was patriotic gestures or acts of sportsmanship, these five heartwarming moments in Paris will leave you with a smile on your face. Respect your rival A gut-wrenching twist of fate transpired in the women’s badminton singles... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274103/paris-olympics-top-5-heartwarming-moments-pan-zhanle-biles-and-rappers-paying-rent?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274103/paris-olympics-top-5-heartwarming-moments-pan-zhanle-biles-and-rappers-paying-rent?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 07:00:55 +0000 An Olympic gold holds the weight of, well an Olympic gold, but adding a touch of flair and suspense to them does no harm. In a city revered for its arts and theatre, plenty of athletes created masterpieces of their own on the canvas of an Olympic arena. Whether they caused you to squint or shout at your screens, here are five of those edge-of-your-seat finishes that turned Olympic dreams to reality in the most dramatic fashion. Pandemonium on the piste How do you top a fencing final decided by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274102/cheung-ka-longs-gold-pans-record-time-and-chinas-bad-maths-5-dramatic-olympic-moments?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274102/cheung-ka-longs-gold-pans-record-time-and-chinas-bad-maths-5-dramatic-olympic-moments?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 06:00:20 +0000 The Olympics is mainly about the world’s greatest athletes competing at the top of the game in their fields. It’s about breaking records and creating legacies. And in the French capital, there was plenty of that. But it’s also Paris. It’s the city of love, so there were plenty who left not just with gold around their necks, but also on their fingers. So, here are our top five marriage proposals, because, yes, there were more than five to choose from. Huang Yaqiong China badminton star Huang... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274101/olympic-games-city-love-course-people-got-engaged-our-top-5-proposals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274101/olympic-games-city-love-course-people-got-engaged-our-top-5-proposals?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:00:24 +0000 You only get one Olympics debut, and from preteens and veterans to global sporting superstars, Paris had it all over the course of two-and-a-bit weeks. Some newcomers left with new-found fame, others simply added another page to their storied career, while there were those who even became memes. But whatever else happens in the rest of their lives, they’ll always have Paris. Here’s a look back at five who stood out in the French capital. Letsile Tebogo First time proved to be a charm for the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274099/nba-stars-world-record-breakers-and-main-character-energy-top-5-debuts-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274099/nba-stars-world-record-breakers-and-main-character-energy-top-5-debuts-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 03:00:12 +0000 The Paris Olympics not only dazzled with world-class athleticism but also kept viewers on the edge of their seats with some captivating storylines. As with all sporting events, the athletes’ performances are just one element, and this year’s Games have been rich with narratives that transcend the sports themselves. If you’re suffering from some sporting withdrawal, here are five storylines that defined the Paris Olympics to reminisce over. Doping controversy Tensions between China and the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274098/suffering-paris-olympics-withdrawal-here-are-5-storylines-defined-games?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274098/suffering-paris-olympics-withdrawal-here-are-5-storylines-defined-games?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 01:00:19 +0000 China’s athletes completed their most successful overseas Olympics on Sunday, winning more events in Paris than ever before and finishing level on golds at the top of the medal table alongside the United States. Aside from the 48 won at the 2008 Beijing Games, China’s next best effort had previously been the 39 won in London four years later. That dipped to just 26 in Rio in 2016, climbed to 38 in Tokyo three years ago, but hit 40 on Sunday afternoon in the French capital when Li Wenwen snatched... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274095/paris-olympics-chinas-best-overseas-games-and-rivalry-us-set-scene-la-2028?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274095/paris-olympics-chinas-best-overseas-games-and-rivalry-us-set-scene-la-2028?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 16:58:36 +0000 It’s almost over now. Just one final push. We may be heading into the final day, but that does not mean the end of the action. There are still plenty of medals to hand out as we wind down and look towards Los Angeles 2028. The battle for supremacy rumbles on as China and the United States battle it out to top the gold medal leaderboard in Paris. So, for one final time, here’s what to look forward to today with all times – as always, in HKT. Hongkonger alert There is still one remaining athlete... https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274044/paris-olympics-hongkonger-action-china-v-us-no-1-5-things-know-day-16?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3274044/paris-olympics-hongkonger-action-china-v-us-no-1-5-things-know-day-16?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 04:30:11 +0000 China pulled off a stunner in rhythmic gymnastics on Saturday, becoming the first non-European country to win Olympic gold in the group event by finishing just ahead of Israel and Italy. The five-woman Chinese team of Ding Xinyi, Guo Qiqi, Hao Ting, Huang Zhangjiayang and Wang Lanjing posted a total of 69.800 points in the final, which was divided into two routines: one using hoops, the other with the athletes using ribbons and balls. China topped the eight-team final in hoops and ranked third... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274045/paris-olympics-china-become-first-non-european-country-win-rhythmic-gymnastics-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3274045/paris-olympics-china-become-first-non-european-country-win-rhythmic-gymnastics-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:21:56 +0000 China players said the comeback victory over Japan in the opening doubles match of the women’s team table tennis final was the key to winning their fifth Olympic gold medal on Saturday. Sun Yingsha and Wang Manyu also admitted Japan’s performance was better than they expected, as China battled to a hard-fought victory at the South Paris Arena. Chen Meng, the women’s singles champion, said even the very first point of the tie had been “vital because it was all about a good start”. “A win could... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3274038/paris-olympics-chinas-women-hail-strong-bond-after-team-table-tennis-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3274038/paris-olympics-chinas-women-hail-strong-bond-after-team-table-tennis-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 01:30:24 +0000 Cao Yuan said he was “confident” China could repel the ferocious challenge of arch-rivals the United States and finish top of the Olympic medal table in Paris. On Saturday, diver Cao claimed a fourth gold from four Games to cement his legacy as one of China’s greatest Olympians. Cao’s success, coupled with women’s team table tennis gold, meant China won every medal available from both of those sports. With golds in men’s weightlifting and women’s rhythmic gymnastics, artistic swimming and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274036/paris-olympics-diving-champion-cao-yuan-backs-china-fend-us-medal-scrap?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274036/paris-olympics-diving-champion-cao-yuan-backs-china-fend-us-medal-scrap?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 00:30:08 +0000 China completed clean sweeps in table tennis and diving in Paris yesterday, making history in the latter as the most successful country ever in the sport at the Olympics. On another golden day in the French capital, there was success too for weightlifter Liu Huanhua and in the women’s rhythmic gymnastics, taking the country’s overall number to 37, just one fewer than the team won in Tokyo three years ago, and four more than the United States had at one point last night. Pre-Games predictions had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274030/paris-olympics-table-tennis-diving-sweeps-china-beat-medal-forecast-race-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274030/paris-olympics-table-tennis-diving-sweeps-china-beat-medal-forecast-race-us?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 16:27:36 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan China’s Wu Yu said winning the women’s 50kg gold medal at the Paris Olympics had felt like a mission she had to complete, on what she thought might be her first and last appearance at a Games. The Chinese boxer also heaped praises on her Cuban coach Raul Liranza, who started training her at the turn of last year, for taking her career to new heights. Wu, 29, outscored Buse Naz Cakiroglu of Turkey with a 4-1 split decision win at Roland Garros late on Friday night, to become only the second... https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3274013/paris-olympics-chinese-boxer-wu-hails-cuban-coachs-influence-gold-medal-run?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3274013/paris-olympics-chinese-boxer-wu-hails-cuban-coachs-influence-gold-medal-run?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 11:30:10 +0000 It’s nearly over, but that doesn’t mean things slow down. Day 15 sees huge names in global sport looking to add Olympic gold – or in some cases more Olympic gold – to their medal collection. Women’s football will say goodbye to arguably its greatest-ever player, but will it be a happy farewell? Meanwhile, China’s table tennis domination shows no sign of stopping and is likely to continue. So let’s take a look at what’s happening with all times, as usual, specified as HKT. Not a sprint Strap... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273992/paris-olympics-us-basketball-gold-marathon-golf-and-more-5-things-know-day-15?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273992/paris-olympics-us-basketball-gold-marathon-golf-and-more-5-things-know-day-15?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 04:30:08 +0000 Chinese social media users questioned whether breaking dance should be an Olympic sport after China’s Liu Qingyi lost her semi-final in the first-ever inclusion of breaking at the Games. Liu, known as B-Girl 671, was beaten by Nicka – Lithuania’s Dominika Banevic, but went on to clinch bronze, beating the Netherlands’ India Sardjoe. Banevic was later defeated by Japan’s Ami Yuasa in the final to take home silver. “I think I did more difficult tricks than other dancers and I did some powerful... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273990/not-olympic-sport-chinese-netizens-fume-after-liu-failed-reach-breaking-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273990/not-olympic-sport-chinese-netizens-fume-after-liu-failed-reach-breaking-final?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:45:07 +0000 Chinese fans have sung the praises of table tennis legend Ma Long after he won a sixth gold medal to complete his 12-year Olympic journey. The 35-year-old had hinted Paris would spell the end of his illustrious career, but many netizens have called for him to play at the next Games in Los Angeles. Ma made history as the first Chinese athlete to have six Olympic gold medals after helping the men’s team beat Sweden on Friday to continue his unique and perfect record since London. Chinese fans... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273989/paris-olympics-godlike-ma-long-hailed-chinese-social-media-after-sixth-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273989/paris-olympics-godlike-ma-long-hailed-chinese-social-media-after-sixth-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 02:58:01 +0000 There are always stories about the sacrifices Olympic athletes have made to reach the pinnacle of their sport, and even given that, the resemblance between the two women fighting for boxing gold in the 75kg final at Roland Garros on Saturday is remarkable. Both are three-time Olympians, and both, Li Qian of China and Panama’s Atheyna Bylon, are a win away from writing their names into the history books. Two-time Olympic medallist Li is looking to take the highest step on the podium, after... https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3273983/paris-olympics-china-panama-boxers-shadow-each-other-path-gold-and-place-history?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3273983/paris-olympics-china-panama-boxers-shadow-each-other-path-gold-and-place-history?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 02:00:22 +0000 China coach Alyson Annan paid tribute to the country’s “amazing sporting culture” after its women’s hockey team came within a whisker of upsetting the Netherlands in the Olympic final. Annan’s side led the world’s No 1 team for 45 minutes, following Chen Yi’s sixth-minute strike, but were pegged back by Yibbi Jansen’s pile-driving equaliser. When the match finished 1-1, the Netherlands won a shoot-out 3-1 to claim their fourth Olympic title in five Games. Afterwards, Annan said she was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273984/paris-olympics-china-tipped-bigger-things-hockey-after-incredible-teams-silver?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273984/paris-olympics-china-tipped-bigger-things-hockey-after-incredible-teams-silver?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 01:01:22 +0000 China table tennis legend Ma Long hinted he may call time on his illustrious career after being given the opportunity to bow out on the ultimate high. The 35-year-old, who helped the men’s team to victory over Sweden on Friday, won his first Olympic gold medal in 2012 and has claimed at least one at every Summer Games since. But now it appears as though his incredible journey is coming to an end after completing a 12-year Olympic journey spanning four Games with another gold medal. “The Paris... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273982/china-table-tennis-legend-ma-long-proud-sixth-olympic-gold-and-great-paris-moments?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273982/china-table-tennis-legend-ma-long-proud-sixth-olympic-gold-and-great-paris-moments?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 00:30:09 +0000 Chen Yiwen claimed diving gold, the men’s table tennis team defended their crown, and China kept pace with fellow sporting superpower USA in the race for Olympic medal table supremacy on another gripping day in Paris. Chen’s masterclass on the 3-metres springboard earned China their seventh gold from seven events at the Paris Aquatics Centre, with the expectation of an eighth to come on Saturday. China’s men were similarly imposing at the South Paris Arena, where Fan Zhendong, Wang Chuqin and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273975/china-and-usa-battling-olympic-games-medal-supremacy-diving-gold-chen?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273975/china-and-usa-battling-olympic-games-medal-supremacy-diving-gold-chen?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:40:58 +0000 There was plenty of drama but in the end no surprises at the South Paris Arena, as China brushed aside Sweden 3-0 on Friday to maintain their perfect record in the table tennis men’s team final. The seventh seeds could do nothing in the face of a powerful Chinese legion, led by the legendary Ma Long, who won his sixth Olympic gold medal, four of which have come in team events. Since the inclusion of the category in Beijing in 2008, China have swept all eight golds, and now nine, across the men’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273972/paris-olympics-chinas-men-seal-team-gold-complete-table-tennis-domination?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273972/paris-olympics-chinas-men-seal-team-gold-complete-table-tennis-domination?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:11:43 +0000 Mexico’s Osmar Olvera has been one of the biggest threats to Chinese diving dominance at the Paris Olympics and behind the wonder boy’s rise is a coach from Beijing. At one stage, the 20-year-old from Mexico City looked like scuppering China’s hopes of a gold medal sweep in Paris, but ultimately had to settle for a silver and bronze in the men’s synchronised and individual 3-metre springboard respectively. Ma Jin, 56, has been coaching Mexican divers for 21 years since being sent to Latin... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273966/paris-olympics-chinese-tough-love-works-wonders-mexicos-new-diving-sensation-olvera?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273966/paris-olympics-chinese-tough-love-works-wonders-mexicos-new-diving-sensation-olvera?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 13:35:50 +0000 Chiharu Shida, dubbed Japan’s “badminton goddess”, has posted photos with Chinese rival Tan Ning on her Instagram story, showing that on-court competitors can be off-court friends. The duo, who faced each other in the Games’ women’s doubles badminton semi-final, have posed for a series of playful photos in which they mimic cartoon characters Judy and Nick from Zootopia, as well as My Melody and Kuromi – two rabbit-like characters from Japanese animation. “I saw a lot of these on Chinese social... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273842/paris-olympics-rival-badminton-stars-chiharu-shida-and-tan-ning-share-animated-friendship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273842/paris-olympics-rival-badminton-stars-chiharu-shida-and-tan-ning-share-animated-friendship?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 06:38:30 +0000 Two weeks deep and there are still new things to look forward to. But as we say hello to some sports, we say goodbye to others with various gold medals decided. There’s also a little controversy for good measure with men’s water polo set for 1.35am only 99 per cent certain to include Hungary as Croatia’s opponents. Italy are still waiting to hear whether their appeal over some of the refereeing decisions in the quarter-final loss to Hungary has been successful. Ring any bells Cheung Ka-long... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/article/3273805/paris-olympics-khelif-liu-hello-breaking-more-china-gold-5-things-know-day-14?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/article/3273805/paris-olympics-khelif-liu-hello-breaking-more-china-gold-5-things-know-day-14?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:30:08 +0000 Paul McNamara Paul McNamara A “regretful” Wu Yanni delivered a withering assessment of her own abilities on Thursday, after crashing out of her Olympic 100 metres hurdles event in Paris. The 27-year-old finished fourth in her repechage race, flunking a second opportunity to reach the semi-finals after a disappointing heat 24 hours earlier. Compatriot Lin Yuwei, who claimed gold at last year’s Asian Games, was also eliminated after placing sixth in her race. And after being knocked out, Wu said she had come to France aiming... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273771/paris-olympics-china-sprinters-too-slow-too-weak-says-wu-after-100m-hurdles-failure?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273771/paris-olympics-china-sprinters-too-slow-too-weak-says-wu-after-100m-hurdles-failure?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:59:07 +0000 South Korea’s table tennis coach Joo Sae-hyuk was left in tears after his side lost their men’s team table tennis quarter-final to China. Cho Dae-seong, Jang Woo-jin, and Lim Jong-hoon were beaten 3-0 by China’s trio of Fan Zhendong, Wang Chuqin and Ma Long. China have won team Olympic gold in every single edition since its inclusion at the 2008 Games in Beijing. “We have lost every single time we faced the Chinese table tennis team,” Joo said. “It has been [the same] for over 20 years. “Our... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273679/paris-olympics-south-koreas-coach-tears-after-losing-table-tennis-clash-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273679/paris-olympics-south-koreas-coach-tears-after-losing-table-tennis-clash-china?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 07:00:13 +0000 Willa Wu Willa Wu China’s new hurdle star Wu Yanni delivered a brutally honest self-assessment of her Olympic debut when asked to mark herself. Her time of 12.98 seconds in the 100 metres hurdles semi-finals was too slow to qualify for the final to cap a disappointing bow. When asked what score she would give herself for her Olympic debut, she simply replied: “Zero.” “I ran really slow while they ran super-fast. Oh my god!” the 27-year-old added in a post-run interview with mainland media on Wednesday. Though she... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273665/paris-olympics-debutant-wu-yanni-brutally-marks-herself-zero-after-qualification-failure?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273665/paris-olympics-debutant-wu-yanni-brutally-marks-herself-zero-after-qualification-failure?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:00:08 +0000 Chinese fans are rallying behind their new track sensation Xu Zhuoyi despite him exiting in the 110 metres hurdles semi-final, urging him to set his sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Xu, who won over fans at home with his charmingly “nerdy” look, dashed to the finish line with his spectacles firmly in place, clocking 13.48 seconds in Thursday’s semi-final. Though his Olympic journey ended sooner than hoped, Xu’s unique charm and determination have ignited a passionate following. The topic... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273648/nerdy-hurdler-tipped-olympic-success-la-2028-after-semi-final-exit-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273648/nerdy-hurdler-tipped-olympic-success-la-2028-after-semi-final-exit-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 03:30:12 +0000 China Anti-Doping Agency (Chinada) called for more frequent anti-doping testing of American track and field athletes, in light of the United States’ Erriyon Knighton completing his 200 metres semi-final despite having previously failed a doping test. The relationship between China and the United States Anti-Doping Agency (Usada) was already strained following the news disclosed earlier this year that 23 Chinese swimmers had been cleared to compete at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 despite having... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273652/paris-olympics-chinada-call-more-testing-us-athletes-after-erriyon-knighton-case?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273652/paris-olympics-chinada-call-more-testing-us-athletes-after-erriyon-knighton-case?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 02:31:21 +0000 Hou Zhihui saluted the “most thrilling competition of my career” after staging a sensational Olympic weightlifting gold medal heist in Paris overnight. Before her final attempt of a roller-coaster 49kg women’s event, China’s Hou knew that if she did not break her own Olympic record, the gold she won in Tokyo would be followed by bronze in the French capital. Hou failed in her first bid to clean-and-jerk 117kg, but swiftly returned to hoist the bar high above her head and spark more Chinese... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273641/paris-olympics-chinas-hou-zhihui-calls-her-weightlifting-gold-most-thrilling-career?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273641/paris-olympics-chinas-hou-zhihui-calls-her-weightlifting-gold-most-thrilling-career?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 02:00:15 +0000 When 17-year-old Chinese breakdancer Liu Qingyi beat her Japanese competitor last October, not only did she pocket the first women’s gold medal ever in breakdancing at the Asian Games, she also qualified directly for the Paris Olympics. Born in 2005 in Huixian City of central Henan province, Liu, whose nickname is B-Girl 671, is one of the country’s young, hungry talents, and sits in the higher echelon of the female breakdancing world. Her athletic advancement has been just as impactful and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3270709/liu-qingyi-chinas-breaking-prodigy-aiming-make-more-history-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3270709/liu-qingyi-chinas-breaking-prodigy-aiming-make-more-history-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 02:00:09 +0000 The head of Great Britain’s diving team in Paris said they had been playing catch up with China for a long time, but there were no plans to copy a system that has brought total domination to the sport. Chinese divers have claimed gold in all five events at the Paris Olympics so far, and are expected to complete a clean sweep over the next couple of days, with the first of those coming in the men’s 3m springboard on Thursday. Wang Zongyuan and Xie Siyi sailed into the final with significantly... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273637/paris-olympics-chinas-diving-domination-leaves-rest-playing-catch-says-team-gb-boss?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273637/paris-olympics-chinas-diving-domination-leaves-rest-playing-catch-says-team-gb-boss?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 01:00:08 +0000 Li Fabin reduced the men’s Olympic 61kg weightlifting competition to a one-man show to retain his crown at South Paris Arena 6 on Wednesday. The hulking Li separated himself from his rivals with an Olympic record lift of 143kg in a punishing opening snatch round, which claimed four victims. The next best was Eko Irawan, who managed 135kg. With the heavy lifting done, Li needed only to avoid a major hiccup in the clean and jerk section to add a second Olympic gold to the world championship and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273632/paris-olympics-flamingo-li-fabin-soars-weightlifting-gold-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273632/paris-olympics-flamingo-li-fabin-soars-weightlifting-gold-china?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:05:16 +0000 The International Olympic Committee said the incident that damaged China table tennis star Wang Chuqin’s favourite paddle had been thoroughly investigated and the matter closed. A photographer had accidentally stepped on the bat, officials said, and the case was considered dealt with. Wang had been celebrating winning mixed doubles gold with partner Sun Yingsha at the time of the incident, and surprisingly lost his first singles match against eventual finalist Truls Moregard the following... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273625/paris-olympics-ioc-says-no-new-probe-wang-bat-damage-china-fans-demand-answers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273625/paris-olympics-ioc-says-no-new-probe-wang-bat-damage-china-fans-demand-answers?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 17:00:10 +0000 Authorities in Beijing have detained a 29-year-old woman for allegedly posting slanderous comments about athletes and coaches on social media. The statement released by the Public Security Bureau of Beijing’s Daxing district did not confirm which athletes and coaches had been targeted. As it stood, police confirmed that the case remained under investigation. He, the arrested individual whose first name has not been revealed, was accused of “maliciously fabricating information and blatantly... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273608/paris-olympics-china-cracks-down-fan-culture-arresting-woman-social-media-posts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273608/paris-olympics-china-cracks-down-fan-culture-arresting-woman-social-media-posts?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:00:21 +0000 The coach behind Chinese diving star Quan Hongchan has captured the spotlight on social media, after her student secured a second gold medal in Paris on Tuesday night. On Chinese social media Weibo, Chen Ruolin headlined the trending list on Wednesday morning, with related hashtags amassing almost 200 million views and 30,000 posts. “After Quan Hongchan won the gold, Chen Ruolin embraced her and discreetly wiped her tears in the corner, with her back to the camera. One glance and you can tell... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273551/paris-olympics-chen-ruolin-coach-behind-quan-hongchan-back-limelight-again?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273551/paris-olympics-chen-ruolin-coach-behind-quan-hongchan-back-limelight-again?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:10 +0000 China’s new swim sensation Pan Zhanle cannot wait to get home to spend time with his sheep, his grandfather said. The 20-year-old won two gold medals and broke his own world record in the 100 metres freestyle in Paris to become a national idol and social media favourite. But his paternal grandfather, who lives in a tiny village in Zhejiang province, said Pan prefers the quiet. “He actually likes rural life,” Pan Bohou told local media. “Every time he visited me in the past, I hardly noticed him... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273512/paris-olympics-china-star-pan-zhanle-excited-get-back-see-sheep-says-grandfather?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273512/paris-olympics-china-star-pan-zhanle-excited-get-back-see-sheep-says-grandfather?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 06:00:12 +0000 China’s diving queen Quan Hongchan must be getting used to the taste of gold in Paris but all she really wants is to go home and eat a traditional Chinese poached chicken. The 17-year-old beat teammate Chen Yuxi on Tuesday to claim a second-straight women’s 10 metres platform Olympic title at the Paris Aquatics Centre. She finished with 425.60 points from five dives, with Chen close behind on 420.70. It was her second gold in Paris after winning in the women’s synchronised 10m platform final... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273506/paris-olympics-chinas-gold-medal-queen-quan-hongchan-excited-brothers-bai-qie-ji?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273506/paris-olympics-chinas-gold-medal-queen-quan-hongchan-excited-brothers-bai-qie-ji?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 05:00:17 +0000 As day 12 of the Olympics is ushered in, we have knockout rounds and new starts galore. Weightlifting and golf are among those to join the party, while we are getting to the business end of the women’s basketball. As usual, there is plenty of athletics to keep you occupied and lots of reasons to stay up late to keep on top of the action. But just how should you plan your evening? Well, let’s take a look at the what’s coming up, with times noted in Hong Kong time. Weightlifting begins Day 12 is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3273500/paris-olympics-wu-yanni-debuts-us-womens-basketball-5-things-know-day-12?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3273500/paris-olympics-wu-yanni-debuts-us-womens-basketball-5-things-know-day-12?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 04:30:09 +0000 Not one swimmer competing at the Paris Olympics has failed a recent drugs test, that we know of, and yet the stench of doping accusations and allegations clung to La Defense Arena throughout nine days of intense competition. This was a Games where the word trimetazidine, or TMZ, was on the lips of those around the pool, as much as the names of its superstar performers: Leon Marchand, Kaylee McKeown and Pan Zhanle. What’s more, because of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (Wada) approach, this is an... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273496/doping-double-standards-and-how-tues-muddy-waters-china-row-us-over-wada?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273496/doping-double-standards-and-how-tues-muddy-waters-china-row-us-over-wada?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 04:00:12 +0000 Few can contest Quan Hongchan on the diving platform. At just 17, she has become China’s diving darling, whose supremacy transcends her age. Quan has amassed five world championships and, following her unrivalled spectacle in Paris, is now a three-time Olympic gold medallist. Even among China’s acclaimed diving cadre, who captured all but one gold in the 2016 and 2020 Games, Quan is on a level all her own. Her masterclass on the 10-metre platform speaks for itself, but the dictionary did not do... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273473/who-quan-hongchan-teen-diving-queen-has-3-olympic-golds-loves-eileen-gu-toys?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273473/who-quan-hongchan-teen-diving-queen-has-3-olympic-golds-loves-eileen-gu-toys?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 22:00:28 +0000 Allegations of doping in swimming are hardly new, and Pan Zhanle’s achievements in the 100m were bound to raise eyebrows. That they have been questioned was to be expected given the atmosphere surrounding the sport. The latest to take a swipe is Great Britain’s Adam Peaty, competing in what is almost certainly his last Summer Games. A triple Olympic gold medallist, he fell just two hundredths of a second shy of grabbing a fourth in Paris and then watched his team miss out on a medal in the 4x100... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273476/paris-olympics-who-adam-peaty-gold-medallist-accusing-china-swimmers-cheating?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273476/paris-olympics-who-adam-peaty-gold-medallist-accusing-china-swimmers-cheating?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 21:00:10 +0000