"Should I wear a down jacket?" former China national athlete responds to criticism over revealing swimsuit

By Linh Chi December 12, 2024 | 09:08 pm PT

Liu Xiang, a former member of China’s national swimming team, has won widespread support from netizens after responding to criticism over her choice to wear revealing swimsuits on social media.

According to the South China Morning Post, Liu took to Weibo on November 30 to address the backlash. She questioned the negative comments, saying, "I saw many people calling me a soft-porn live-streamer. Is there something wrong with my lifestyle?"

"Should I wear down jackets instead of a swimsuit while swimming?" she added.

Liu expressed her love for swimming and her admiration for women in swimsuits. "I love myself in a swimsuit, and I appreciate seeing other girls in swimwear. I hope my social media content conveys a positive attitude towards life to my audience. Am I doing anything wrong?"

Chinese former national swimmer Liu Xiang. Photo from Weibo

The 28-year-old swimmer, who retired from the national team in 2022, confidently stated that she would continue sharing swimsuit videos, adding, "If you ask whether I would dare to post videos of myself in a swimsuit in the future, my answer is: absolutely!"

Her post sparked discussions online, with many fans praising her confidence and support. One user commented: "It’s absolutely right to show your true self. Swimming is not just a sport; it’s a way of life. I support your confidence and determination."

Another supporter remarked: "What kind of people criticise Liu? They must have shadows in their minds, leading them to perceive everything negatively."

This isn’t the first time Liu has addressed online criticism. Earlier this year, when some commented on her weight gain, particularly in her legs, she confidently responded: "OK, I know I am fat. It’s a healthy beauty. I embrace everything about myself. I am the most beautiful one."

Liu wears swimsuit in one of her photos on social media. Photo from Weibo

Liu Xiang poses in a swimsuit in a photo shared on her social media. Photo courtesy of Weibo

Liu, who won gold in the 50-metre backstroke at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games and set multiple world records, now has 5.6 million followers on Douyin and 1.3 million fans on Weibo. Since retiring, she has become a popular blogger, sharing content about travel, fashion, and swimming on her social media platforms.