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Yating Yang

Rising Chinese high jump star, Shao Yuqi, has gone viral for her athletic performance and striking appearance.
The athlete has also attracted attention and praise for challenging traditional beauty stereotypes in sport.
On August 1, Shao, 23, from the Hubei provincial track and field team based in central China, claimed the women’s high jump title at the 2025 Chinese National Athletics Championships with a leap of 1.90 metres.

Following her victory, Shao went viral on mainland social media for both her performance and her striking looks.
One of her videos on social media showcasing the competition got more than 3 million likes.
Shao was introduced to the high jump at primary school, where her athletic potential was quickly recognised after she effortlessly cleared a one-metre bar during a tryout.
“There were so many stereotypes in primary school. People assumed that if I went into sports, I would waste my life, maybe end up at a sports school at best,” Shao told Jiupai News.

“There were plenty of malicious comments, but also people who truly loved and supported me. My secondary school coach always praised me, and my dad supported me unconditionally.”
But there was another string to her bow.
In 2020, Shao was admitted to Tsinghua University, one of the most prestigious universities in China.
As her fame grows, Shao has also faced criticism, particularly about her appearance. Some netizens question her achievements by comparing them to world records.
“The world record is 2.10 metres. How can you be so proud of your performance?” was one typical comment.

But Shao said: “This year, the overall level of the women’s high jump is rising. I just want to say, rather than tearing us down, why not encourage us? If you truly care about Chinese athletics, there is no need for such comments.
“If I ever get the chance to stand on the Olympic stage, the result will not matter. Just being there would mean I have already won, not just for my country, but for myself and for everyone who has supported me since I was young. That is the ultimate dream.”
Shao, along with fellow track athlete Wu Yanni, has also stirred debate for defying traditional expectations in China of how female athletes should look and behave.
They both often wear make-up, braid their hair and do their nails, embracing femininity while competing.
Some online observers also told Shao to cut her hair because it might hit the high jump bar.
But she fired back: “This is ridiculous. People say female athletes now look like they are in a beauty pageant. It is our body and we decide how to present ourselves.”

“On the track, you have to be bold and full of confidence. There cannot be a trace of fear in your eyes when facing the bar.
“I just want to be pretty. Why should I care what others think? I did win the championship. Wu Yanni is also the best in Asia. We are strong, and we are beautiful women,” Shao said.
Her statement has earned widespread praise and support online.
One person said: “She is definitely strong and beautiful.”
While another wrote: “Beauty does not need to be hidden, and strength does not require compromise.
“When both athletic excellence and self-expression are equally appreciated, sport can finally return to its essence, pursuing greatness while embracing diversity.”


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Top China athlete praised for looks and talent concedes that she embodies strength, beauty

Chinese high jumping champion, Shao Yuqi, who attends one of the country’s most prestigious universities, has gained recognition for her beauty and athletic prowess. Photo: SCMP composite/RedNote

Up and coming star, Shao Yuqi, soars above the high-jump bar at an athletics meet. Photo: Baidu

Shao makes her approach run at a competition. Videos of her in action get millions of views online. Photo: Baidu

Shao in training. She says people should not “tear athletes down” but offer them encouragement. Photo: Baidu

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Striking high-jump prospect hits back at critics who belittle her achievements, say she should cut her hair


Striking high-jump prospect hits back at critics who belittle her achievements, say she should cut her hair.


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Wu Yanni

Tsinghua University

Top China athlete praised for looks and talent concedes that she embodies strength, beauty

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Striking high-jump prospect hits back at critics who belittle her achievements, say she should cut her hair

Striking high-jump prospect hits back at critics who belittle her achievements, say she should cut her hair