Chinese authorities investigating ‘malicious’ cyberbullying of diving star Quan Hongchan
Investigation comes after Olympic champion reveals she had sustained online abuse, including from group that reportedly includes teammates
Chinese swimming authorities have launched an investigation into cyberbullying targeting three-time Olympic diving champion Quan Hongchan, including by a group that included some of her own national teammates.
The authorities have also reported the matter to the police.
Quan, who won her first gold at Tokyo 2020 at the age of 14 and two more at the 2024 Paris Games, discussed the toxic online commentary about her weight and the immense pressure she has felt to diet, even though she was already eating very little.
In a show of support for the 19-year-old, the Guangdong Ersha Sports Training Centre, Quan’s provincial team, issued a statement titled “Say resolute ‘no’ to toxic fandom culture” on Wednesday, condemning the attacks on the diver and confirming it had reported the matter to police.
“Quan Hongchan, as a young athlete who has won honour for the country, has endured undue public pressure and psychological harm during her development. We express serious concern and firmly oppose this,” the centre said in its statement.