"Quan Hongchan Faces New Challenges Amidst Competitive Excellence in Diving"

The celebrated diver Quan Hongchan, known for her remarkable achievements, is now learning to adapt to the physical changes that come with growing up as an athlete. At only 18 years old, she has experienced significant growth, standing 15 centimeters taller and weighing 10 kilograms more than when she first gained international attention at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This transition has made the dynamics of diving more complex for her, as she finds that controlling her spins, velocity, and entry with her new size requires increased strength and training.

Recently, Quan opened up about her struggles during the World Aquatics Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing, admitting that the familiar feeling she once had while diving seems to have shifted. She expressed that mistakes are happening more frequently on dives that were once second nature to her. Recognizing that this growth spurt is a common hurdle for young athletes in sports like diving, she remains optimistic, stating that such challenges are what differentiate true champions from those who may shine temporarily.

Despite finishing second to her teammate, Chen Yuxi, in the Beijing finals, Quan showed a commendable outlook, acknowledging the need to adapt to her changing physique and committing to intensifying her strength training. This journey has been unique for her, as it marks a period of three consecutive losses to Chen, a situation she's never faced since her debut in 2021. Her coach, Chen Ruolin, emphasized that this developmental phase is a natural part of growing up in competitive sports and expressed confidence in Quan’s resilience and talent.

The friendly rivalry between Quan and Chen also plays a crucial role in her adaptation process. They enjoy a close bond, providing each other with emotional support and sharing advice. Chen Yuxi, who has consistently performed well in the competition, acknowledges the strength of their friendship amidst the competition, reinforcing the value of their mutual support as they navigate the challenges of elite diving together.