China Investigates Alleged Cyberbullying Against Teen Diving Champion

Chinese Swimming Authorities Launch Investigation into Quan Hongchan’s Cyberbullying

The General Administration of Sport in China has launched an investigation into the online abuse faced by three-time Olympic gold medallist Quan Hongchan. The body stated that it is taking the matter seriously and has reported the incident to police.

Quan, who won her first gold at Tokyo 2020 at the age of 14 and two more at Paris 2024, has spoken publicly about the toxic online commentary she has faced regarding her weight. She has also shared that she considered retiring from swimming after the Paris Olympics due to the pressure to diet.

According to Quan’s statements, she was repeatedly asked about her weight in public and private settings, with some people claiming she was “fat”. The General Administration of Sport’s swimming management centre stated that it is working with officials in Guangdong province, where Quan is from, to investigate the malicious attacks and false information targeting Quan Hongchan.

The centre also rejected “abnormal” fan culture, which has been a growing concern in China. State media have referred to this behaviour as “toxic fandom”, and authorities have pledged to crack down on it.

Quan’s swimming club has also reported the incident to police, stating that athletes are a valuable national asset and any act of malicious slander or spreading false information is unacceptable.

The investigation into Quan Hongchan’s cyberbullying is ongoing.

Source: Al Jazeera