Wu Yanni (R) of China competes during the women's 100m hurdles final at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province on October 1, 2023. Photo: Xinhua

The "pretty" identification photo of Chinese hurdler Wu Yanni on the official website of the Paris Olympics recently ignited Chinese social media. The International Olympic Committee seems to have high hopes for her, placing her personal information at the forefront. In track and field, the young hurdler has continually attracted attention. She has not only conquered the track with her speed and skill but also become a topic of public discussion due to her bold makeup and personality.

Should athletes wear heavy makeup? Every time Wu appears at the starting line in tight-fitting clothes with exquisite makeup, it always sparks applause and a debate. The public's reception of Wu's style has been mixed. Some Chinese netizens argue that an athlete's focus should be solely on their performance, suggesting that an emphasis on appearance detracts from the sport's essence.

On the other hand, a significant number of supporters have lauded Wu for her confidence and individuality. They see her as a "trailblazer" who is challenging "old-fashioned" norms and redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern era. Her boldness in expressing herself through her appearance is seen as a testament to her self-confidence and a celebration of her identity.

In the face of controversy, Wu remains composed and self-assured. She has stated in interviews that her makeup and distinctive attire are a form of respect for both the competition and the audience, as well as a means of self-expression.

Regarding her choice of clothing, Wu explains that it is a necessity for her sport, with tight-fitting gear designed to reduce wind resistance and enhance speed. Every second gained is a step closer to victory, a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. As for her signature moves during competitions, Wu said that this is her way of releasing pressure and adjusting her mental state.

It is well known that athletes in most sports are generally simple and rarely wear makeup during competitions. Therefore, in everyone's thoughts, athletes seem to want to maintain their natural appearance.

But Wu's emergence is different. It turns out that athletes can also compete with beautiful makeup. As for whether heavy makeup is appropriate, everyone may have different answers. However, it is undeniable that Wu is redefining the image and boundaries of athletes in her own way.

Ultimately, the debate surrounding Wu's appearance is a reflection of broader social attitudes toward athletes and their role in society. It prompts us to consider whether we should expect athletes to adhere to a certain set image.

The true essence of an athlete lies in their dedication to sports, their spirit, and their courage to pursue their dreams and push their limits. Whether they choose to wear makeup or not is inconsequential in the grand scheme of their achievements and the hard work they put into their practices.

As we look toward the Olympics and other sporting events, let us not be distracted by superficial judgments. Instead, let us celebrate the athletes for their performances, their dedication, and their pursuit of excellence. They are the pride of each nation and deserve people's unwavering support. 

After all, it is their performance on the field that truly defines them.

The author is a reporter with the Global Times. life@globaltimes.com.cn