https://www.scmp.com/rss/518892/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com South Korean pistol shooter Kim Ye-ji, whose skill and nonchalance “won the internet” at the Paris Olympics, has landed her first acting role – as an assassin. The 32-year-old took silver in the women’s 10 metres air pistol in July and her ultra-calm demeanour, combined with her wire-rimmed shooting glasses and baseball cap, turned her into a worldwide online sensation. As videos of her shooting went viral, she drew praise from celebrities such as Elon Musk. “She should be cast in an action... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3279263/paris-olympics-viral-south-korean-shooter-scores-first-acting-role-assassin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3279263/paris-olympics-viral-south-korean-shooter-scores-first-acting-role-assassin?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Sep 2024 06:30:07 +0000 Paris was undoubtedly an epicentre of viral stardom this Games. Some Olympians landed a place on a podium, while others earned for themselves a place in the internet spotlight. And they proved that the true measure of Olympic prosperity is not always sporting glory. So let’s check out five of this year’s viral stars in Paris. Do YOU know the #ParisOlympics muffin man? Click the link for all you need to know about #HenrikChristiansen: https://t.co/nIfZ1awNKb. 🍫 (🎥: TT)... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274560/paris-olympics-its-not-always-about-winning-or-taking-part-5-viral-stars-games?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274560/paris-olympics-its-not-always-about-winning-or-taking-part-5-viral-stars-games?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Aug 2024 05:06:16 +0000 The Paris Olympics drew 30.6 million viewers daily. And under the glow of the City of Light, athletes were launched further into the social media stratosphere. So here’s 15 athletes who gained the most followers through the Games, with Brazilian athletes in particular benefiting. Rebeca Andrade View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rebeca Andrade🤍🦋 (@rebecarandrade) Gymnast Andrade, Brazil’s most decorated Olympian, collected four medals in Paris... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274438/olympic-stars-biggest-instagram-follower-boom-simone-biles-stephen-curry-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274438/olympic-stars-biggest-instagram-follower-boom-simone-biles-stephen-curry-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Aug 2024 00:00:16 +0000 A Paris Olympics poster from the television network Eurosport has been slammed as racist by users on X after it failed to include any Chinese or Japanese athletes who helped their countries finish second and third in the medal table, respectively. On Monday, Eurosport shared a poster that featured some of the biggest stars from this year’s Summer Games with a caption that read: “The Greatest Show on Earth. Paris 2024, we will never forget you.” Social media users were quick to attack the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274475/paris-olympics-eurosport-poster-excluded-chinese-japanese-athletes-slammed-racist?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274475/paris-olympics-eurosport-poster-excluded-chinese-japanese-athletes-slammed-racist?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:30:09 +0000 The Paris Olympics are over, but a Games packed full of highs and lows, laugher and tears will live long in the memory. It’s four years until we do it all again, so in the meantime, here’s a look back at some of the best of the past three weeks. Mongolia’s kit The fashion gold medal was won before the Games even started. No one could compete with Mongolia’s opening ceremony outfit, which was rated hands down the most beautiful in Paris. Hong Kong spirit Remember the days after Vivian Kong’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274364/paris-olympics-best-reads-hong-kong-golds-pan-zhanle-clashes-mongolias-kit-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274364/paris-olympics-best-reads-hong-kong-golds-pan-zhanle-clashes-mongolias-kit-and-more?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:35:03 +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 Two of China’s biggest stars at the Paris Olympics are struggling to cope with obsessive fan culture, finding themselves regularly mobbed at airports, hotels and in their hometowns. A video of diving sensation Quan Hongchan has gone viral on China’s Instagram-like platform, Xiaohongshu, with users expressing anger at fans for surrounding the 17-year-old at an airport, despite her being uncomfortable with the situation. Swimmer Pan Zhanle, who won two golds and a silver in Paris, even said he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274285/china-olympic-hero-pan-would-swap-gold-quiet-life-quan-hongchan-besieged-airport?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274285/china-olympic-hero-pan-would-swap-gold-quiet-life-quan-hongchan-besieged-airport?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Aug 2024 05:40:02 +0000 The breaking community wants the world to give B-Girl Raygun a break as the Paris Olympics wrapped up. The sport made its Olympic debut in Paris – it might never be back – and one of the lasting images was the performance of an Australian B-Girl known as Raygun, who did a “kangaroo dance” and scored zero points. In a show of support on Sunday, the head judge of the breaking competition said 36-year-old university professor Rachael Gunn was just trying to be original. And the breaking federation... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274192/breaking-community-defends-b-girl-raygun-hopeful-sports-return-olympic-programme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274192/breaking-community-defends-b-girl-raygun-hopeful-sports-return-olympic-programme?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:17:39 +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 Working as a sports journalist comes with perks, the grandest of all being frequent access to the hottest tickets in town. Essentially, you go to some of the biggest events around the world, and get paid for your trouble. Improbable as it seems, there is a downside to this arrangement. Now, very few of us would swap what we do for the world, although a weary English reporter declared in a low moment over breakfast this week that he was minded to quit and work as a postman. He will not, of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274097/postcard-paris-watching-olympics-tough-job-somebody-has-do-it?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274097/postcard-paris-watching-olympics-tough-job-somebody-has-do-it?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:00:12 +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 You have to hand it to the French, they don’t care what anyone thinks. After a truly awful opening ceremony two weeks ago, they follow it up with an interminable closing one. Not for them a quick thanks and goodbye, no, no, another three-hour epic, if that’s the right word. Turgid would be another one, so would drivel, but you get the point. Which is a shame, because the actual Olympics, the competitive action that is, ended with a truly stunning women’s basketball final between the USA and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274111/while-you-were-sleeping-golden-cockroach-interpretive-dance-tom-cruise-close-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274111/while-you-were-sleeping-golden-cockroach-interpretive-dance-tom-cruise-close-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 23:30:17 +0000 Among the various breakers competing in the Paris Olympics, one in particular has taken the internet by storm: Australia’s Rachael Gunn. In videos of her performances shared online, B-Girl Raygun was seen hopping around like a kangaroo, touching her toes while lying down and seemingly squirming around on the dance floor. Netizens were quick to pick up on Gunn’s unusual moves and catapulted her to internet fame with thousands memes. But who is she? Let’s take a look. Early years Born in Hornsby... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274058/who-rachael-gunn-paris-olympics-australian-breakdancer-who-became-internet-meme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274058/who-rachael-gunn-paris-olympics-australian-breakdancer-who-became-internet-meme?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 06:11:35 +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 Have we really been doing this for two weeks? Honestly, it feels longer. Still, here we are, the final day of the Paris Olympics and what a ride it has been. The closing ceremony is just hours away and we still have medals to hand out. In the race for first, China have moved onto 39, the USA are on 38 and there is every possibility the two nations could finish tied at the top of the medal table. At one point last night China were four clear, so things have changed a bit while you were... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274037/while-you-were-sleeping-china-hit-39-gold-medal-race-goes-down-wire-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274037/while-you-were-sleeping-china-hit-39-gold-medal-race-goes-down-wire-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 23:30:25 +0000 Behind every Olympic medal lies not just years of rigorous training, but also a meticulously planned diet. From Hong Kong fencing queen Vivian Kong Man-wai’s vegan diet to the legendary Novak Djokovic’s strict chocolate intake, Olympic medallists’ relationships with food often attract public attention. Their plates are a testament to discipline, showcasing how the quest for gold extends far beyond the arena and into every meal, snack and sip. The Post takes a closer look at Olympic athletes’... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274008/paris-olympics-gold-winners-kong-djokovic-zheng-quan-how-eat-champions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3274008/paris-olympics-gold-winners-kong-djokovic-zheng-quan-how-eat-champions?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 10:00:14 +0000 The United States team’s disqualification for an invalid baton exchange in the men’s 4x100 metres relay at the Paris Olympics has prompted sarcastic comments on Chinese social media. Some questioned why the Americans had not asked for a rerun after their team of Christian Coleman, Kenny Bednarek, Kyree King and Fred Kerley bungled their first baton change. It left them trailing behind as Canada claimed gold, South Africa silver and Great Britain bronze, with the US later disqualified. China, who... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3274005/paris-olympics-us-mens-4-x-100m-relay-debacle-prompts-sarcasm-among-chinese-netizens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3274005/paris-olympics-us-mens-4-x-100m-relay-debacle-prompts-sarcasm-among-chinese-netizens?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 08:55:20 +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 Before the Paris Olympics started, the American forecasting company Nielsen Gracenote confidently predicted that China could win as many as 34 golds. With two days of competition left they are at 33 and tied at the top of the medal table with the USA, and both countries are doing their best to defy expectations and those predictions, just not always in a good way. If you watched the dumpster fire that was the American men in the 4x100-metre relay earlier this morning you’ll know what I’m talking... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273980/while-you-were-sleeping-dutch-courage-goal-fest-and-baffling-us-mistakes-day-14-had-it-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273980/while-you-were-sleeping-dutch-courage-goal-fest-and-baffling-us-mistakes-day-14-had-it-all?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 23:31:37 +0000 This live blog has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. Download our app to get faster notifications and 14 days of unlimited access. There were 35 gold medals up for grabs in Paris on day 14, enough to make a difference in the race to finish top of the pile come Sunday. China grabbed one early in the women’s double canoe 500m race, and in record time too, and added further golds in the women’s 3m springboard... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273866/paris-olympics-day-14-singapores-maeder-gold-bid-china-chase-diving-sweep?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273866/paris-olympics-day-14-singapores-maeder-gold-bid-china-chase-diving-sweep?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:03:52 +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 You know those times when you ask a friend “so, did I miss anything?” in the hope they say no, and instead they run off a laundry list of things you actually did miss. Yeah, that. We could do an entire novella just on the remarkable events at the Stade de France, and there will be an American studio exec somewhere dreaming up a straight-to-TV film about a plucky basketball team that overcame the odds to battle back and win gold. As you might have gathered, yes, if you were asleep last night then... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273789/while-you-were-sleeping-200m-gold-usa-survive-upset-5-things-you-missed-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273789/while-you-were-sleeping-200m-gold-usa-survive-upset-5-things-you-missed-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 23:30:29 +0000 China’s table tennis champions Sun Yingsha and Wang Chuqin have captured more than just Olympic gold – they have also won the hearts of fans, who see them as an inseparable pair. Their on-court chemistry has sparked a social media phenomenon, with supporters dubbing them “a couple” who have weathered triumphs and challenges side by side. On Weibo, China’s Facebook equivalent, devoted fans have created a “Chaohua page” called “5114 Sha Tou” – a cleverly crafted moniker that blends the athletes’... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273749/paris-olympics-fans-see-chinas-table-tennis-champs-sun-yingsha-wang-chuqin-couple?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273749/paris-olympics-fans-see-chinas-table-tennis-champs-sun-yingsha-wang-chuqin-couple?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:11 +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 French runner Alice Finot will never forget the evening of August 7, 2024. Because that was the night she broke the European record in the 3000 metres steeplechase final and then proposed to her boyfriend in front a watching crowd at the Stade de France. A video of the incident quickly went viral, and his yes surely helped her get over the disappointment of just missing out on a bronze medal. Finot’s time of eight minutes, 58.67 seconds was enough to see her finish fourth in the race but set a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273687/he-said-yes-alice-finot-breaks-3000m-euro-record-then-proposes-boyfriend-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273687/he-said-yes-alice-finot-breaks-3000m-euro-record-then-proposes-boyfriend-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 06:30:11 +0000 “Remember to to look both ways before crossing the street” is a standard piece of advice we all receive as children – well, someone should have told the camera operator during the men’s 5000 metres heat at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday. A video on social media showed the cameraman casually crossing the track as the runners approach and then quickly stopping in the middle of the group. “It is amateurish,” said Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen, who was looking to overtake on the curve as the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273673/paris-olympics-cameraman-crossing-tracks-almost-causes-pile-during-mens-5000m-heat?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273673/paris-olympics-cameraman-crossing-tracks-almost-causes-pile-during-mens-5000m-heat?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:30:08 +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 It’s day 13 in Paris and fortunately it’s not a Friday, otherwise we’d be in real trouble, still it’s guaranteed to be unlucky for some no matter what they do. This might be a day you want to set alarms, or take strategically timed naps, because it’s going to a long one, and there is plenty happening in the early hours you won’t want to miss. In fact, there’s just a lot happening in general, and while we tend to stick to five subjects, no one said we had to keep it to five events. So, here’s a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/explainers/article/3273667/paris-olympics-hongkonger-noah-lyles-and-wu-yanni-5-things-know-day-13?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/explainers/article/3273667/paris-olympics-hongkonger-noah-lyles-and-wu-yanni-5-things-know-day-13?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 04:30:18 +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 Another night of action in Paris, and some remarkable performances from some incredible athletes. The feats of strength, agility or dexterity on display never cease to amaze, and last night was no different. So, while you were catching your beauty sleep, here’s what happened overnight in the French capital. Hou remarkable Hours after China’s Li Fabin defended his weightlifting title, which most people were awake for, it was Hou Zhihui’s turn, and she certainly made her supporters sweat. The... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273639/while-you-were-sleeping-88-year-curse-broken-and-china-weightlifting-gold-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273639/while-you-were-sleeping-88-year-curse-broken-and-china-weightlifting-gold-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:30:24 +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 China has had such a stranglehold on table tennis for decades that other countries, in an attempt to get their foot in the door, have been scouring the country’s diaspora to bolster their delegations and boost their chances at Olympic gold. At this year’s Paris Olympics, Germany, Australia, Canada, France, the United States, Slovakia, Fiji, South Korea, Monaco, Portugal and even Hong Kong have taken players either born on the mainland or are of Chinese descent. Luxembourg and Chile both went a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273448/paris-olympics-youth-aunties-chinese-diaspora-features-strongly-table-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273448/paris-olympics-youth-aunties-chinese-diaspora-features-strongly-table-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:00:11 +0000 A luxury hotel has apologised to tennis great Serena Williams after she complained on Monday about being turned away from its restaurant, in a social media post seen by millions. Williams, who is in France for the Olympic Games, said she had been unable to get a seat for herself and her family at a rooftop restaurant at the Peninsula Paris, part of the luxury chain that includes its flagship establishment in Hong Kong. “Yikes @peninsulaparis I’ve been denied access to rooftop to eat in an empty... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273445/peninsula-apologies-turning-away-serena-williams-says-restaurant-was-fully-booked?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273445/peninsula-apologies-turning-away-serena-williams-says-restaurant-was-fully-booked?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:50:58 +0000 Chinese gymnast Su Weide issued a further apology following criticism for his blunders during the Paris Olympics. Su, a 24-year-old Games debutant, was ranked fifth in the men’s horizontal bar final on Monday when he went to his hands and knees after landing. It was is his second critical error at the Games. The previous Monday, he lost his grip twice and came crashing down on the mat during his bar routine in the men’s gymnastics final, effectively handing the gold medal to Japan. “Taking part... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273353/paris-olympics-su-weide-offers-more-apologies-after-blunders-cost-china-gymnastics-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273353/paris-olympics-su-weide-offers-more-apologies-after-blunders-cost-china-gymnastics-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 05:00:12 +0000 Zhou Yaqin became a social media darling after a video of her heart-melting antics on the podium went viral. The 18-year-old gymnast, who took silver on the balance beam on her Olympic debut on Monday, was posing for photographs with gold and bronze medallists, Alice D’Amato and Manila Esposito, after collecting their medals. Watching the Italian duo engage in the podium tradition of posing for a photo while biting their medals, Zhou’s eyes widened and she appeared puzzled. Then, moments later,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273337/cute-moment-chinese-gymnast-mimics-italian-duo-podium-paris-olympics-social-reacts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273337/cute-moment-chinese-gymnast-mimics-italian-duo-podium-paris-olympics-social-reacts?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 02:45:03 +0000 The chances are the 77,083 spectators inside the Stade de France could run newly crowned Olympic champion Noah Lyles quite close in terms of the reaction time, given the speed with which they left after the men’s 100m final on Sunday night. I might have spent a couple more minutes in the stands watching the moments after a United States sprinter finally won the coveted title again after 20 years before making my way to the exits, but there must have still been 20,000 people walking, or running,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273315/postcard-paris-stunning-show-speedy-final-and-even-quicker-exit-after-mens-100m?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273315/postcard-paris-stunning-show-speedy-final-and-even-quicker-exit-after-mens-100m?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 22:30:14 +0000 Badminton silver medallist He Bingjiao may not have wowed anyone with her performance in the women’s singles final on Monday, but she won the hearts of millions with a fine display of sportsmanship as she stood on the podium. With a silver medal around her neck, the Chinese world No 9 held a small badge of the Spanish flag, paying homage to her semi-final opponent Carolina Marin. On Sunday, Marin was one game up and leading the second 10-8 when she suffered an injury to her right knee, forcing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273306/chinas-he-praised-holding-spanish-flag-olympic-podium-injured-opponents-honour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273306/chinas-he-praised-holding-spanish-flag-olympic-podium-injured-opponents-honour?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 13:41:59 +0000 French pole vaulter Anthony Ammirati’s failed attempt to clear the pole went viral on social media earlier this week. Wearing a tight men’s leotard, the 21-year-old looked set to clear a height of 5.70 metres in the men’s qualification round. Yet despite a smooth lift off the ground and a graceful turnaround before landing, his crotch, along with the knees, prevented him from clearing the bar during his third attempt. He ended up finishing 12th in Group A with a height of 5.60m and fans left in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273222/pole-vaulters-pole-steals-headlines-paris-olympics-after-awkward-viral-video?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273222/pole-vaulters-pole-steals-headlines-paris-olympics-after-awkward-viral-video?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 07:01:03 +0000 The father of Zheng Qinwen, Chinese tennis’ new queen, said he instilled the art of competition in his daughter from day one. Zheng made history earlier this week, claiming China’s first Olympic singles gold medal ever in women’s tennis. And her father, Zheng Jianping, said he wanted her to be the best at everything she attempted right from birth. “On the first day she was crawling on the ground, I had already instructed her, that she should crawl faster than others,” he told a local television... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3273215/zheng-qinwens-paris-olympics-success-down-tiger-parenting-says-disciplinarian-father?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3273215/zheng-qinwens-paris-olympics-success-down-tiger-parenting-says-disciplinarian-father?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 06:20:08 +0000 Pan Zhanle soared to the top trending charts on social media again on Monday after the China swim team made history by ending the United States’ dominance of the 4x100m medley relay to take gold. Pan produced another stunning swim in the Paris La Defense Arena to receive the best 20th birthday gift he could imagine. Starting the final leg in third place, 0.75 seconds behind the leading French team, Pan stormed past his rivals in the final 25m, clocking 45.92 in his leg with a reaction time of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273203/pan-zhanle-birthday-boy-china-end-us-64-year-unbeaten-run-4x100m-medley-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273203/pan-zhanle-birthday-boy-china-end-us-64-year-unbeaten-run-4x100m-medley-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:30:14 +0000 Chinese fans are celebrating Fan Zhendong’s table tennis gold in the men’s singles, which has continued country’s streak of gold medals in Olympic event since 2008. Fan recovered from a game down against Truls Moregard, who surprisingly knocked out China’s world No 1 Wang Chuqin in the round of 32, to win 4-1. Victory marked the 27-year-old’ completion of a career gand slam, having now secured singles titles in the World Championships, World Cup, and Olympics. There was extra pressure on Fan... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273168/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-praised-chinese-social-after-gold-seals-career-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273168/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-praised-chinese-social-after-gold-seals-career-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 14:25:24 +0000 Beyond just elevating himself to Philippines national hero status, Carlos Yulo’s historic Olympic gold has triggered a cascade of rewards from the public and private sector. Yulo earned the country its inaugural Olympic gold in gymnastics and only the second gold ever, after weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz at the Tokyo Games. In recognition of his unparalleled accomplishment, a slew of local brands and even national institutions have showered Yulo with lavish rewards. The Philippine government has... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/asia/article/3273146/philippines-rejoices-yulo-gold-gymnast-gets-hk135-million-house-free-food-reward?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/asia/article/3273146/philippines-rejoices-yulo-gold-gymnast-gets-hk135-million-house-free-food-reward?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 08:48:27 +0000 Tennis gold medallist Zheng Qinwen has been praised for her patriotic spirit after saying she had finally “brought glory to her ancestors” by making history at the Paris Olympics. The 21-year-old said winning the Olympics for her country was more meaningful than winning one of the sports grand slams; the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open. Zheng’s achievement was the first time any Chinese player has won the singles tournament at a Games, and the country’s first tennis... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273136/china-hails-zheng-queen-wen-after-she-says-tennis-gold-brought-glory-her-ancestors?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273136/china-hails-zheng-queen-wen-after-she-says-tennis-gold-brought-glory-her-ancestors?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 06:37:24 +0000 Chinese social media platform Weibo has banned more than 300 accounts for “inciting conflict” after users expressed their dismay at Chen Meng’s victory over compatriot Sun Yingsha in the women’s table tennis final in Paris on Saturday. Chen beat Sun 4-2 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles to retain her Olympic title, in a final that was a repeat of the one played in Tokyo three years ago. While Sun is a national hero in China, despite Chen holding three Olympic gold medals, Chen divides... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273131/chinese-fans-boo-table-tennis-champion-chen-meng-sparking-furious-online-reaction-home?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273131/chinese-fans-boo-table-tennis-champion-chen-meng-sparking-furious-online-reaction-home?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 05:29:05 +0000 In the wake of a night forever etched in Asian history, Hong Kong and China fans can finally breathe a little, although if tennis is your thing then there is a storming men’s singles final to look forward to. But we doubt we are the only ones still recovering from Zheng Qinwen’s battering of Donna Vekic, so a bit of a snoozy Sunday ticks the boxes. And away from the latest instalment of the rivalry between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, today’s agenda is more of about enjoying the Olympic... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273125/paris-olympics-novak-djokovic-noah-lyles-chase-gold-5-things-know-day-9?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273125/paris-olympics-novak-djokovic-noah-lyles-chase-gold-5-things-know-day-9?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 04:39:47 +0000 Gold medal-winning Hong Kong épéeist Vivian Kong Man-wai is taking a break from professional fencing after the Paris Games to focus on a new career, with fans and officials wishing her well for the next chapter. The city’s No 2 official, Eric Chan Kwok-ki, said it was a pity to see Kong step away from the sport but he hoped she would take up coaching to pass on her experience and provide guidance to local fencing talent. The 30-year-old fencing queen announced her decision on Instagram and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/fencing/article/3273120/hong-kong-olympic-champion-vivian-kong-taking-break-fencing-wants-give-back-city?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/fencing/article/3273120/hong-kong-olympic-champion-vivian-kong-taking-break-fencing-wants-give-back-city?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 02:30:52 +0000