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Chen Xiaodan (middle), girlfriend of Shi Zhiyong, trains students at a volleyball court. [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn] 

China's weightlifter Shi Zhiyong broke world records to win gold in the men's 73kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on July 28. 

During an interview with Shi after he won Team China's 12th medal in Tokyo, he declared that he would marry his girlfriend Chen Xiaodan when he returned to China.

Chen currently works as a volleyball coach at Shaoxing Luxun Primary School. She said that she was very surprised and touched by Shi's declaration to the world.

Chen said that she and Shi were classmates in primary school but it was not until she retired as an athlete that they became a couple.

Weightlifter Shi Zhiyong of China is seen in action in Tokyo, on July 28, 2021. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

Shortly after Shi won gold at the men's 69kg category at the Rio 2016 Olympics, Chen, who was then interning as a reporter, happened to be assigned to interview him. This was when the two were reunited and eventually fell in love, according to Chen.

"He is shy, opposite of the tough person he appears to be when competing," Chen revealed. "He is good at giving little surprises such as buying me flowers or sending me presents."

Though Chen's profile has grown since the high-profile confession of love by Shi, the woman said she prefers to be known as just a volleyball coach.

"I have no opportunity to compete in the Olympics, but I hope my students are able to do so," Chen said.

At the Zhejiang Volleyball Championship for Teenage Girls held in May, the team led by Chen were crowned champions. This is the second time Chen has seen her team emerge triumphant in competitions.