Chinese track and field beauty criticized for heavily edited photos

A photo posted by Wu Yanni on social media platform Weibo on Jan. 19, 2025. Photo by Weibo/吴艳妮Jennie

Wu, 27, shared 10 black-and-white photos on Weibo on Jan. 19, garnering over 40 million views. In the post, Wu said she is pursuing the style of American model Kendall Jenner.

However, Wu’s photos received mixed reactions, with comments criticizing the heavy editing.

"Who edited your photos? Next time, use someone else," user Ricky wrote.

"This photo doesn't look much like you because it uses too much Photoshop," account WinterKau commented.

Wu responded to the criticism, stating: "Everyone has their own preferences, and I like these photos."

On Rednote, a social platform popular among women, Wu's photos were more positively received.

"I think these photos are very beautiful. Why are people commenting like that? Women should try different styles," account Berries wrote.

Wu has won multiple Chinese championships in the women’s 100m hurdles. She competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she drew attention for her makeup, which was unusual for runners, who typically compete bare-faced.

In August 2023, Wu claimed a silver medal at the World University Games in Chengdu with a personal best of 12.76 seconds. However, her tattoo, revealed during the competition, caused a stir online. In China, tattoos are associated with negative stereotypes, and athletes are banned from competing with visible tattoos. Wu attempted to comply by covering it with a bandage, but it was still noticed.

Dubbed "China’s athletics goddess," Wu is well-known for her vibrant personality and bold style, which includes multiple tattoos that her fans see as symbols of confidence and individuality.