1. Overview
Zhang Fengliu (张凤柳Zhāng FèngliǔChinese; born November 15, 1989) is a prominent Chinese freestyle wrestler. She has achieved significant success in international competitions, notably securing a bronze medal in the women's freestyle 75 kg event at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Earlier in her career, Zhang also claimed a gold medal at the 2013 World Wrestling Championships in the 72 kg division and earned two bronze medals at the Asian Wrestling Championships.
2. Life
Zhang Fengliu's early life and background set the stage for her career in wrestling.
2.1. Birth and Background
Zhang Fengliu was born on November 15, 1989, in Chaoyang, a city located in the Liaoning province of China. She holds Chinese nationality.
2.2. Early Career
Zhang Fengliu embarked on her wrestling career, although specific details regarding her initial entry into the sport or her early training stages are not extensively documented in available records. Her participation in various championships from a relatively young age indicates an early start in competitive wrestling.
3. Wrestling Career
Zhang Fengliu's wrestling career is marked by a series of notable achievements in major international competitions, demonstrating her consistent performance and skill on the global stage.
3.1. Major Competition Achievements
Zhang Fengliu has competed in several prestigious wrestling tournaments, earning medals at the Olympic Games, World Championships, and Asian Championships.
3.1.1. Olympics
At the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Zhang Fengliu competed in the women's freestyle 75 kg category. She delivered a strong performance, ultimately earning a bronze medal in the event. This marked a significant milestone in her career, securing an Olympic medal for China.
3.1.2. World Championships
Zhang Fengliu achieved a career highlight at the 2013 World Wrestling Championships in Budapest, Hungary. Competing in the 72 kg division, she secured the gold medal, becoming a world champion. Her path to victory included defeating the formidable Natalia Vorobieva of Russia, who was both a European and Olympic champion at the time.
3.1.3. Asian Championships
Zhang Fengliu has also been a consistent medalist at the Asian Wrestling Championships. She won her first bronze medal at the 2008 Asian Wrestling Championships held in Jeju City, South Korea, competing in the 67 kg division. The following year, she earned another bronze medal at the 2009 Asian Wrestling Championships in Pattaya, Thailand, this time in the 63 kg category.