Retired China Olympic champion diver sparks debate after reality show reveals toxic parenting

A former Chinese Olympic diving champion’s quest for independence has struck a chord online, after her mother’s controlling behaviour drew widespread criticism following their appearance on a reality TV show.

Zhang Jiaqi, 22, grew up in a modest Beijing family and went on to win gold in the women’s synchronised 10-metre platform event at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Her youthful charm and exceptional talent have also attracted 3.3 million followers on Douyin.

Zhang began diving at six, won her first national title at 12 and went on to claim dozens of gold medals at home and abroad.

But success came at a steep physical cost. Years of gruelling training left her with injuries to her shoulders, back and feet, while some of her joints still ache in damp weather. She retired last November.