One of the swimmers competing in Beijing at the World Cup event was Fu Yuanhui. Her classic interview at the Rio Olympics made her an internet hit. The athlete known for her 'primordial powers' appreciated all that attention but wants people to remember her for swimming. That being said she can still show off her playful side.
On the first day of the Swimming World Cup, Fu Yuanhui took part in the 50-meters freestyle preliminary heat. This event is not her speciality. Before the race she told reporters she did not think she could make the final and started warming up. Unlike others, Fu Yuanhui played with her teammates in the water.
Fu: Am I fast? So fast? I was also 12.88 seconds? I always swim like this and I thought it was fast.
After the Rio Olympics, Fu Yuanhui received a lot of media attention. Many people forget she was also succesful, claiming a bronze medal in the 100-metre backstroke, but people only remember her as the girl with "primordial powers." They are not concerned with her swimming exploits but her funny words and cute expression. But the extrovert showed her emotions again.
After the Rio Olympics, Fu Yuanhui took part in many business activities and promotional events. It seemed that her funny expression and exaggerated body language, and aloof outlook had many people labelling her. The primordial power girl made people forget that she is an athlete. This is not something she wants.
Fu:" I want people to know me in a positive way, through my career achievements, instead of my emotions that are being discussed now. Maybe I was born to have many emotions as my muscles in my face are strong, but it is bad if the media only focus on this, and made this my legacy, and ignore my career as an athlete."
During the interview, Fu also discussed her swimming techniques, her thoughts and goals, and was very careful answering the reporter's questions. But the girl with primordial powers, had her character shine through -- naturally. So by being genuine, that is what makes her special, in and out of the pool.
