Pan Zhanle just can’t stay out of the spotlight, even after his history-making run at the Paris Olympics. Whether it’s a nation celebrating his epic achievements or his rivals questioning his jaw-dropping performances and snappy comebacks, Pan keeps everyone talking. But don’t be fooled by his clear-headed demeanor—there’s more to this 20-year-old Chinese swimming phenom than meets the eye!

The 20-year-old Chinese swimming prodigy recently made another headline via his unlikely action over the fandom culture that is an indispensable byproduct of modern-day stardom. While most athletes are stuck dodging their fans’ constant attention, Pan flipped the script in a way that might just set a new trend for athletes everywhere!

Chinese Swimming sensation breaks free from fandom

Pan Zhanle’s Paris Olympics were nothing short of legendary—two gold medals, a world record in the men’s 100-meter freestyle, and a historic takedown of the U.S.’s 64-year unbeaten streak in the 4×100-meter medley. Naturally, his fame skyrocketed. According to The South China Morning Post, his Douyin followers ballooned by a million in just five days after his championship win on August 1. But things took a surprising twist on August 12. Out of nowhere, Pan disbanded his official Weibo fan group—a move that quickly lit up the internet, racking up over 250 million views at the time.

The group, which he started back in 2021 when he was still flying under the radar, was filled with fans who genuinely loved swimming. But with his sudden rise to stardom, the fan group swelled with new members, making Pan increasingly uneasy. Why shut it down?  In an interview with CCTV, Pan didn’t hold back, pointing out how fans who now flock to him for autographs were nowhere to be found when he wasn’t on top.

He shared, “Achievements come from step-by-step training. When my performance was poor, they didn’t come to find me. But now they do, it feels really strange and awkward. I hope to keep a low profile and enjoy some peace and quiet.” However, Pan’s actions have people praising him even more for his clear-headed approach and down-to-earth approach. But did you know this isn’t the first time Pan Zhanle has unapologetically spoken his mind?

Pan Zhanle’s words are as sharp as his speed—just ask Kyle Chalmers and Jack Alexy!

Affectionately known as “the new flying fish,” Pan Zhanle’s known for his straightforward demeanor—definitely not your typical, scripted media darling. In one interview with CCTV during the Paris Olympics, he didn’t mince words about the Olympic Village food, saying, “The meat tastes like wood.” And when it came to his rival, Australia’s Kyle Chalmers, Pan didn’t hold back either! “When I finished the 4x100m freestyle relay the other day, I said ‘hi’ to Chalmers, but he totally ignored me,” Pan shared on TV. But he didn’t stop there!

Pan also called out American swimmer Jack Alexy for allegedly disrespecting Chinese coaches during a training session. “When we were training, our coach was standing by the poolside, and he turned in such a way that the water splashed right onto the coach. I felt he looked down on us a little,” Pan explained.

Chalmers later responded, saying he had nothing but respect for Pan. “I find it a bit weird. I gave him a fist pump before the relays, and then my focus went to my teammates and my own racing,” Chalmers said. “We had a laugh together at warm-down last night—but no issues from my end.” In fact, Chalmers mentioned that he had since been in touch with Pan and was planning a visit to Shanghai. He shared that they had exchanged messages, which he found to be a nice gesture.

Pan was apparently looking forward to having him in Shanghai and had even offered to show him around, something that Chalmers said made him more excited about the trip. This no-nonsense approach is exactly why Chinese netizens have taken Pan to heart. He’s not just swimming against the current—he’s making waves. What do you think about Pan Zhanle shutting down his Weibo fan group and his bold, no-filter personality? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!