Overview

• Chiharu Shida publicly pleaded on social media for Chinese fans to stop stalking her, citing fear and discomfort during competitions in China over the past 18 months.
• The Japanese athlete, nicknamed 'Badminton Goddess' in China, emphasized her appreciation for respectful fans but called for an immediate end to invasive behavior.
• Shida and her doubles partner, Nami Matsuyama, are currently ranked third in the world and recently won bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
• Chinese authorities have increased efforts to curb obsessive fan behavior, shutting down nearly 4,000 online accounts and removing over 1.6 million posts targeting athletes.
• The Chinese Olympic Committee has condemned 'obsessive fan culture,' warning that such actions harm public order, sporting ethics, and athlete safety.