Three years after making Olympic history in Tokyo, China’s Hou Zhihui is set to defend her women’s 49kg weightlifting title at the Paris Games. 🌟 The defending champion, known for her precision and strength, is one of six Chinese athletes heading to the Olympics as the sport adapts to streamlined divisions and qualifiers.
From Tokyo Triumph to Paris Ambitions
Hou dominated the Tokyo 2020 stage with a record-breaking 210kg total lift (94kg snatch + 116kg clean and jerk), securing China’s first gold in weightlifting that year. Since then, she’s claimed titles at the World Championships and Hangzhou Asian Games, proving her staying power. In April 2024, she smashed the snatch world record with 97kg at the Thailand World Cup, sealing her Paris spot with a 221kg total.
Breaking Records, Staying Grounded
At 27, Hou credits her success to simplicity and focus. \"Staying calm and sticking to basics keeps me consistent,\" she told media. But Paris isn’t just about defense—she’s eyeing new milestones. Can she lift her way into history again? 🤔 The world will be watching when competition kicks off this summer!
🏅 Tokyo 2020: 210kg total (Olympic record)
🌍 World Cup 2024: 97kg snatch (world record)
🇫🇷 Paris goal: Break barriers, inspire a generation
