Sun Yang

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Kazan 2015 - Victory Ceremony 400m freestyle M

Sun Yang after winning 200 free (27023874853)

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Sun Yang (Chinese: 孙杨; born 1 December 1991) is a Chinese competitive swimmer who has won Olympic and World Championship titles. Sun's achievements in the pool have made him one of the world's foremost swimmers, particularly in long-distance freestyle events.

Early Life and Career

Sun Yang was born in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. He began swimming at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks of the sport in China. His talent was evident early on, and he joined the Chinese National Swimming Team, making a significant impact on the international stage.

International Career

Sun Yang's international career took off at the 2011 World Championships in Shanghai, where he won gold in the 800m and 1500m freestyle, setting a new world record in the latter. This performance established him as a leading swimmer in long-distance freestyle.

At the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Sun Yang continued his dominance by winning gold in the 400m and 1500m freestyle, breaking the Olympic record in the 400m and the world record in the 1500m. His success made him the first Chinese man to win an Olympic gold medal in swimming.

Sun defended his titles and continued to win medals at subsequent World Championships and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. However, his career has also been marred by controversy, including allegations of doping and confrontations with other swimmers and officials.

Controversies

Sun Yang's career has been overshadowed by several controversies. In 2014, it was revealed that he had served a three-month suspension for using a banned stimulant, which Sun claimed was for treating a heart condition. This incident raised questions about doping in swimming and Sun's integrity as an athlete.

Further controversy arose during the 2019 World Championships when Australian swimmer Mack Horton refused to share the podium with Sun, citing his doping history. This incident sparked a heated debate within the swimming community and among fans worldwide.

Achievements and Records

Sun Yang has set multiple world records during his career, particularly in the 1500m freestyle, where his time of 14:31.02, set at the 2012 London Olympics, stood as a benchmark in the event. He has won numerous medals at the Olympics and World Championships, making him one of the most decorated swimmers in the history of Chinese swimming.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Sun Yang's impact on swimming, especially in China, is undeniable. He has inspired a generation of swimmers in his home country and has brought attention to long-distance freestyle swimming, a discipline often overshadowed by shorter, more explosive events.