Born and raised in Shanghai, she pursued higher education in Business Management at Renmin University of China in Beijing. Fluent in Mandarin, she balanced her academic pursuits with her diving career, showing dedication and resilience.

Sporting Achievements

Her diving career is marked by significant achievements. She won gold medals at the 2004, 2008, and 2012 Olympic Games. These victories solidified her status as one of the greatest divers in history. In 2016, she became the most successful female diver at the Olympics.

Challenges and Injuries

Throughout her career, she faced numerous injuries. In 2007, she injured her lower back, foot, and waist during training. A waist injury troubled her during the 2012 Olympics. In 2013, an injury prevented her from competing at the National Games in China.

She also dealt with congenital hemolytic anaemia, which caused shortness of breath and fatigue. Despite these challenges, she continued to excel in her sport.

Awards and Honours

Her exceptional performance earned her recognition from the International Swimming Federation (FINA). She was named Diver of the Year in 2011 and 2012. These accolades highlighted her dominance in the sport.

Retirement and Legacy

In December 2016, she announced her retirement from diving. Her career left an indelible mark on the sport. She set records for the most Olympic medals by a female diver and the most gold medals by any Olympic diver.

Personal Life

Known by nicknames like "Sister Xia" and "Glass Beauty," she enjoys reading and listening to music. Her sporting philosophy is encapsulated in her motto: "The road map of life depends on the choices you make with your heart."

Influences and Idols

Chinese diver Guo Jingjing was the most influential person in her career. She also admired Chinese diver Fu Mingxia and Canadian diver Jennifer Abel. These figures inspired her throughout her journey.

Memorable Moments

After winning gold at the 2012 Olympics, she learned about personal tragedies that had been kept from her to protect her focus. Her grandparents had passed away over a year earlier, and her mother had been battling breast cancer for eight years.

Health Struggles

At age 10, she was diagnosed with beriberi, a condition caused by a lack of vitamin B1. It took around two years for her to fully recover from this illness. Despite these health issues, she continued to pursue excellence in diving.

Her story is one of perseverance and triumph over adversity. From a young girl noticed for her physique to an Olympic champion, she has left an enduring legacy in the world of diving.