The Competition

Chen Yuxi, also of China, clinched the gold medal with a score of 419.35. Quan Hongchan followed closely behind, earning 414.4 points.This competition marked Quan Hongchan’s first major event as the Paris olympics the previous year,adding to the anticipation surrounding her performance.

the Dive Heard ‘Round the World

Cameras focused on Quan Hongchan before her dives, capturing her intense concentration. Observers noted the 18-year-old diver’s increased height and strength compared to previous competitions. While she led after the first two rounds, a mistake on her third dive, a challenging 6243D, proved costly. Despite executing the approach smoothly, a slight imperfection upon entering the water resulted in a lower score of 75.2 points.

The ripple effect of this single dive extended beyond the scoreboard.

Coach’s Candid Reaction

Television cameras captured chen Ruolin’s immediate response to the flawed dive. Her reaction, a mix of surprise and concern, quickly went viral. The broadcast showed her appearing to mouth an Ouch, followed by a frown and then applause.

Following the dive, Chen Ruolin and Quan Hongchan reviewed the footage together, with Chen offering immediate feedback.The session ended on a positive note, with both athletes laughing. Chen Ruolin even patted Quan Hongchan on the back, and Quan Hongchan left with a big laugh.

Social Media Buzz

The video clip of the dive and Chen ruolin’s reaction ignited a flurry of online discussion. Comments ranged from technical analysis to expressions of support:

• This jump is indeed a bit splashing.
• Who hasn’t made a mistake yet?
• it’s normal to start developing and gaining weight.
• The interaction between the master and the apprentice is so loving. After the mistake, they laughed and reviewed the game together.

Quan Hongchan’s Outlook

In a post-competition interview, Quan Hongchan addressed the challenges of adapting to physical changes:

I can’t find the feeling I used to feel. When she grows, her movements will deform, and the result is expected.The competition was pretty good, but the training was not particularly good some time ago, and the overall jump was pretty good.
Quan Hongchan, Diver

She also acknowledged the impact of increased public engagements on her training schedule:

After the Paris Olympics, I participated in more activities, so I rarely focused on training. Actually, it felt quite magical. The whole person was different, just like the kind of person who first participated in the competition, and I was very nervous.
Quan Hongchan, Diver

Despite the challenges, Quan Hongchan expressed optimism, stating she felt more relaxed this time and hoped to bring joy to others. She also emphasized her commitment to refocusing on training and competition.

Looking Ahead

Quan Hongchan has openly discussed her evolving performance trajectory, stating, I don’t think there is a peak now, and I feel like I’m going down slowly. She has also identified weight management as a key goal moving forward.

The Coach-Athlete Bond

Chen Ruolin, a decorated Olympian with five gold medals, transitioned into coaching after retiring due to injury. Her partnership with Quan Hongchan began after Quan’s gold-medal victory at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Their close relationship has frequently captured public attention.

A lighthearted anecdote from December of the previous year illustrates their bond. On Chen ruolin’s birthday, Quan Hongchan sent her a WeChat red envelope with the message, Happy birthday to coach Chen, I will be 18 forever. Though, the actual amount contained in the envelope was only 0.01 yuan (one cent). Chen Ruolin’s amused reaction and subsequent exchange with Quan Hongchan sparked widespread amusement online.