Olympic spirit found in heartwarming moments

Grace, goodwill have big presence at events

More than a venue for competition, the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics are a venue for transmitting goodwill and friendship, as well. Despite not completing the most difficult jump in the 4 1/2 rotation quadruple axel on Feb 10, thus failing to gain a place on the podium, 27-year-old Japanese figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (pictured) won the respect of other Olympians.

Chinese figure skater Jin Boyang, who finished in ninth place, met up with Hanyu in the rest area afterward, and the pair were pictured making the shape of a heart with their hands as a gesture of friendship and encouragement. In addition, Hua Chunying, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman, tweeted her support and best wishes in Japanese to Hanyu, writing that "he continues to surpass himself and practice the Olympic spirit, which is why Chinese audiences love him".

When 31-year-old Chinese athlete Xu Mengtao won the gold in freestyle skiing woman aerials with her triple flips on Feb 14, US skier Ashley Caldwell said that she was proud of her.

Although Caldwell finished in fourth place, she walked over and hugged her tightly and excitedly when she heard Xu had won the gold medal. "Mengtao, Olympic Champion" and "I am so proud of you" Caldwell said with tears in her eyes.

Pictures of the two hugging spread rapidly on social media platforms at home and abroad.

YANG ZEKUN