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Paris Olympics: fans see China’s table tennis champs Sun Yingsha, Wang Chuqin as ‘couple’

  • Their chemistry has sparked a social media phenomenon, with dedicated pages and sites fuelling the imaginations of their ardent followers

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A photo showing Wang Chuqin (left) and Sun Yingsha hugging after matches with the caption “I will protect the one I love” has received more than 1,000 likes.   Photo: AP

China’s table tennis champions Sun Yingsha and Wang Chuqin have captured more than just Olympic gold – they have also won the hearts of fans, who see them as an inseparable pair.

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Their on-court chemistry has sparked a social media phenomenon, with supporters dubbing them “a couple” who have weathered triumphs and challenges side by side.

On Weibo, China’s Facebook equivalent, devoted fans have created a “Chaohua page” called “5114 Sha Tou” – a cleverly crafted moniker that blends the athletes’ birth dates and nicknames.

This digital haven overflows with photos and videos showcasing the duo’s close bond, fuelling the imaginations of their ardent followers.

Fans have created a narrative between Wang (left) and Sun that goes beyond their playing partnership. Photo: AP
Fans have created a narrative between Wang (left) and Sun that goes beyond their playing partnership. Photo: AP

The nickname’s breakdown reveals the depth of fan engagement:

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“511” and “Tou” represent Wang, born on May 11 and playfully teased for his “da tou”, which means big head in English. Meanwhile, “114” and “Sha” stand for Sun, a November 4 baby affectionately called “shasha” by her inner circle.

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