China’s Olympic legend Yu Zaiqing has added another milestone to his illustrious career, being elected as an honorary member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at a ceremony in Greece . The 73-year-old sports diplomat, a key figure behind China’s Olympic triumphs, received the IOC’s prestigious Olympic Order to cap off his 23-year tenure as a committee member.
A Legacy Forged in Gold
Yu, who served twice as IOC Vice-President (2008-2012 and 2014-2022), told crowds: "This honor isn’t just mine—it’s China’s story on the global sports stage." He highlighted the nation’s triple Olympic hosting wins: the iconic 2008 Beijing Summer Games, groundbreaking 2022 Winter Olympics, and the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing.
From Stadiums to Diplomacy
Since joining the IOC in 2000, Yu has bridged sports and international relations, earning respect as a "quiet force" in Olympic governance. His new honorary status—a rare lifetime achievement title—comes as he prepares to step down from active IOC roles this December.
. The 73-year-old sports diplomat, a key figure behind China’s Olympic triumphs, received the IOC’s prestigious Olympic Order to cap off his 23-year tenure as a committee member.
iconic 2008 Beijing Summer Games, 
groundbreaking 2022 Winter Olympics, and the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing.
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