A man has been detained and fined by police in Guangdong province for repeatedly engaging in cyberbullying of an athlete, according to a statement released on Friday by the Yuexiu branch of the Guangzhou Public Security Bureau.
The 31-year-old man, identified by his surname Xu, is a diving enthusiast who was found to have used derogatory language against an athlete from the Guangdong Ersha Sports Training Center in a WeChat group he created, causing a significant negative impact, the statement said. Xu was given 10 days of administrative detention and fined, while other group members who exhibited similar behavior were also punished in accordance with the law.
Gold medalist Quan Hongchan of China poses for photos during the awarding ceremony after the women's 10m platform final of diving at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Saint-Denis, France, Aug. 6, 2024. (Photo: Xinhua)
Earlier reports from Chinese media said the athlete targeted was Olympic champion Quan Hongchan. On Wednesday, the training center reported to local police that Quan had been subjected to online bullying. The center expressed concern that Quan, who has brought national honor through her achievements, was facing "undue public pressure and psychological harm" due to the attacks.
The same day, the swimming management center of the General Administration of Sport of China said it was working with local sports authorities to investigate and address the situation, pledging zero tolerance for cyberbullying.
The police statement underscored that the internet is not beyond the reach of the law, adding that authorities are committed to protecting the legitimate rights of citizens. It said law enforcement will take strict action against those who insult or abuse others online and hold them legally accountable.
Public attention intensified following a recent interview in which the 19-year-old Quan became visibly emotional while discussing the aftermath of the Paris Olympics. She said fluctuations in her weight and ongoing public scrutiny had led her to consider retirement at one point. The prolonged stress resulted in insomnia and recurring nightmares, including dreams of falling from the diving platform.