The reaction of the USA women’s diving team to the celebratory pose of their Chinese rivals in Paris has taken social media by storm over the past week.
On Saturday, Olympic newcomers Chen Yiwen and Chang Yani captured China’s first gold medals in diving by overcoming the USA and Great Britain teams in the women’s synchronized 3-meter springboard final.
The Chinese pair scored 337.68 points, surpassing the American duo of Sarah Bacon and Kassidy Cook—who scored 314.64—and Great Britain’s Yasmine Harper and Scarlett Mew Jensen with 302.28 points.
After receiving their medals, Chen lifted Chang in a bridal carry, striking a pose for photographers atop the podium.
Cook’s astonished reaction was promptly shared on social media, igniting a frenzy of responses.
Chinese Olympians Chan Yiwen and Chang Yani’s celebration in Paris went viral online
USA diver Kassidy Cook’s reaction to Chen carrying Chang sent social media into a frenzy
As their celebration continues to spread online, speculation arose among users about the potential romantic relationship between the gold-winning pair.
A Xiaohongshu user began to romanticize their connection, posting a series of pictures from various competitions with the caption: ‘If love has miracles, I would be the happiest creating them with you.’
‘The most romantic thing is to have your names engraved together in sporting history,’ another user remarked.
The X (Twitter) account @Football Report later suggested that Chen and Chang are indeed a couple, sharing a charming mirror selfie purportedly taken from their social media profiles.
A Twitter page later reported that Chen and Chang are in a relationship as speculations grew
The duo/couple brought home China’s first gold in synchronized diving with a 337.68 score
The Americans secured the silver medal while Great Britain got the bronze finish on Saturday
Whether their relationship is real or part of fan fiction, supporters believe that Chen and Chang’s achievement and mutual encouragement has firmly bonded them in the annals of China’s sporting history.
‘Chen Yiwen and Chang Yani, whether as individuals or as a celebrated duo, are both uniquely beautiful,’ commented one user.
‘Regardless of their relationship status, I am moved by their profound connection and dedication.’
