Shanghai Observer, Jiefang Daily: “Wu Liufang’s story highlights the challenges retired athletes face due to a lack of robust social support systems. Many lack resources and skills to pivot to new careers. Influencing, especially with provocative content, has become an accessible way for them to make a living.”
Lin Kankan, media critic: “While Wu has the freedom to post what she likes, influencers should consider the broader implications of gaining popularity through such means.” Source: Jiemian.com
Chengdu.cn, Chengdu Media Group: “Much of the criticism stems from Wu frequently wearing national team uniforms in her videos. If she continues to leverage her former athlete identity as a publicity tool, controversy will persist.”
In late November 2024, Wu Liufang, a 29-year-old former gymnast and current Douyin influencer, found herself at the center of controversy after posting a series of dance videos deemed overly provocative.
Wu, a former gold medalist for the Chinese national gymnastics team, won accolades for the floor exercise at the 2010 FIG World Cup in Doha, Qatar and the balance beam at FIG Paris, France that same year. Retiring from gymnastics in 2013, she explored various careers, including coaching at a sports school in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. In April 2024, Wu pivoted to become an influencer, sharing dance videos on Douyin. In many clips, she wears shorts, mini-skirts and stockings, as well as her Team China uniform, which some view as inappropriate.
The backlash intensified on November 21 when Guan Chenchen, a 20-year-old gymnast and 2020 Olympic balance beam champion, criticized Wu in the comments of one video. “Sister, if you insist on posting content that borders on eroticism, go ahead, but don’t tarnish the image of gymnastics,” Guan wrote.
Wu dismissed the critique as “sour grapes,” and a public spat ensued in the comments. Days later, Douyin determined Wu’s videos violated community guidelines, removing most of her content. Wu subsequently apologized to her fans on November 24.
Wu’s follower count has since surged from 55,000 to over 6.3 million.
The incident ignited widespread online debate. Supporters argued that Wu, as a private citizen, has the right to post what she pleased, provided it was legal. Critics countered that her actions reflected poorly on the spirit of gymnastics and damaged the reputation of the national team.
Many netizens expressed concern about the struggles retired athletes face, particularly regarding unstable employment. Wu revealed she had endured years of low-paying, insecure jobs before becoming an influencer, garnering sympathy from many.
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