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Huang Yuting and Sheng Lihao in Paris Olympics. Photo: Xinhua

Young Chinese athletes born after 2000 have made their mark at the Paris Olympic Games, securing 10 out of the country's 13 gold medals as of Friday Beijing time, capturing the global attention with their athletic talent and spirited demeanor. 

Among these rising stars, 17-year-old Huang Yuting and 19-year-old Sheng Lihao clinched China's first gold in the 10m air rifle mixed team event in Paris. Meanwhile, 20-year-old swimmer Pan Zhanle shattered his own world record to win gold in the men's 100m freestyle, underscoring the new generation's prowess on global stage.

Deng Yawen, 18, also a first-time Olympian, won gold in the women's park final of cycling BMX freestyle, as the Gen-Z athletes aim for medals in emerging Olympic sports such as breakdancing, sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing. 

In addition to their athletic achievements, these young talents have made their mark in the global sporting showpiece through their unique demeanor and relaxed attitude, which has captured the attention and admiration of spectators worldwide.

Sheng, known on China's X-like platform Weibo by the username "only by eating," quickly gained widespread attention. His nickname, when combined with the Chinese phrase "duo guan" (win the championship), humorously transforms into "Winning the championship just by eating."

Netizens also noticed that Huang frequently carries adorable soft toys and often shares pictures of cute dogs on her social media account.

"Young athletes should have their own personalities. I like their relaxed attitude," a netizen said on Weibo.

Yang Hao, who won gold in the men's synchronized 10m platform diving with teammate Lian Junjie, appeared in the post-match press conference wearing glasses with the iconic Olympic rings.

The average age of the Chinese sports delegation at the Paris Games is 25.

The 11-year-old skateboarder Zheng Haohao, who is the youngest member of the Chinese delegation, made history by becoming China's youngest Olympian. 

Zheng told the Xinhua News Agency that the Olympics will be the least stressful part for her. 

"Participating in the Olympics means more people will get to know me. I started skateboarding just to make new friends and have fun," she said. 

The Gen-Z athletes' attitude and demeanor have turned people's focus from counting the number of gold medals to the excitement of sport and the Olympic spirit.