"Back then, I just told myself, 'I've reached this level, so I have to give it my all', I practiced tirelessly, every day, until the last possible moment," she says.

In July 2023, Chen secured her third consecutive gold medal in the women's individual 10m platform at the World Aquatics Championships.

Then, this summer, at the Paris Olympics, she and teammate Quan Hongchan successfully won the gold medal in the women's synchronized 10m platform, and in the individual event, Chen earned silver with a score of 420.70.

Over the past three years, Chen has faced a range of challenges, each one met with resolve and perseverance. Today, she feels more centered and composed, with a greater sense of balance in all areas of her life.

Off the diving platform, Chen is a strikingly different figure — lively, curious, and full of interests that extend far beyond the sport that has made her a champion.

After returning from the Paris Olympics, she took a much-needed break to unwind. Chen visited Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, to see the giant pandas, and even tried on traditional hanfu, embracing the chance to experience different aspects of Chinese culture.