Japanese Badminton Star Chiharu Shida Urges Chinese Fans to End Stalking Behavior

Shida, competing in the Badminton Asia Championships, says the harassment over 18 months has left her feeling unsafe, prompting intensified measures by Chinese authorities.

• 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.

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