In a heartwarming display of camaraderie across sports disciplines, Olympic champions Gu Ailing, Quan Hongchan, and Chen Yuxi came together after a triumphant day for Chinese diving at the ongoing Paris Olympics. Following their impressive victory in the women's synchronized 10m platform event, Quan Hongchan and Chen Yuxi were joined by Beijing Winter Olympics gold medalist Gu Ailing, who expressed her admiration for the diving duo in a post-match press conference.
On July 31, Quan Hongchan and Chen Yuxi won the gold medal by more than 40 points in the highly anticipated diving competition. Their performance was met with widespread acclaim. Gu Ailing surprised everyone by appearing at the press conference to congratulate the newly crowned champions.
"It's my first time meeting them in person, and I have to say, they're both adorable and hilarious," said Gu Ailing, the freestyle skiing superstar who won hearts worldwide during the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. "I struggle with just two flips in my sport; it's mind-blowing to see them execute three and a half with such ease."
Comparing her own skiing and diving disciplines, Gu emphasized the stark differences between the two sports. "Diving involves front and back flips, while skiing is all about spinning horizontally. The techniques are vastly different, but as athletes, especially at the Olympic level, we share a common experience. Standing on the world's biggest stage, performing under immense pressure, striving to be our best selves, and ultimately winning gold – that feeling is universal."
The camaraderie extended beyond words as the trio posed for a photo together after the press conference, embodying the spirit of unity and mutual respect among athletes from different backgrounds. Quan Hongchan, visibly thrilled, exclaimed, "It's amazing to finally meet her in person!"
Gu Ailing came to Paris this time to participate in the mass marathon of the Paris Olympics. She has come to the diving venue many times to cheer for the Chinese athletes.
Author | Alice
Video | Alice, Yang Qi
Editor | Will, Nina, James
