Wu Yanni's career has seen various stages, from her time in sports school and competing for the provincial track team to becoming a prominent figure after the 2023 World University Games (Universiade) in Chengdu. According to Sina, her romantic journey has also navigated different phases: the innocent crushes of youth, a relationship with a fellow athlete, and controversial partnerships after achieving celebrity status.

Wu Yanni after winning a silver medal at the World University Games in Chengdu, China in 2023. Photo: Xinhua

Wu's first relationship reportedly began when she was 16, while attending a sports school in Zigong, Sichuan. At that time, she was a young athlete focused on the 100-meter hurdles, enduring daily rigorous training that included running, hurdling, and strength exercises. Her first boyfriend was a sprinter from the same school, one year her senior. The two often supported each other in training, sharing the physical demands and their dreams for the future.

This high school romance was simple, devoid of elaborate gifts or grand romantic gestures. However, when Wu caught the eye of the provincial track team coach and was set to join the provincial team for training in Chengdu, the couple reportedly decided to part ways to focus on their respective careers.

After joining the Sichuan provincial team, Wu is said to have started her second relationship with a male track and field athlete on the same team. Both experienced intense training, injuries, and performance pressure, fostering a unique sense of empathy between them. This athlete reportedly encouraged Wu during periods of poor form, helping her analyze techniques and undertake additional training. In turn, her optimism and resilience were said to be a source of motivation for him.

However, as Wu's performance rapidly improved and she was called up to the national team, the two found themselves in a long-distance relationship. The demanding training schedule and competitive pressures gradually led to disagreements. Ultimately, they reportedly separated amicably, with a promise to "keep striving and meet at the top."

Wu Yanni at the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China. Photo: Instagram / wuyanni_jennie

A major turning point in Wu's career and public profile occurred at the 2023 World University Games in Chengdu. She secured a silver medal in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 12,76 seconds, subsequently capturing widespread attention for her iconic national flag celebration and distinctive winning style.

Her newfound fame brought numerous commercial endorsements and increased media scrutiny. Consequently, stories about the private life of the 1997-born runner garnered more interest.

Wu's third relationship was with a blogger who had a notable online following. The two reportedly met at a commercial event. Their public interactions, outings, and joint appearances frequently attracted attention on social media.

This relationship also drew mixed public reactions. Some social media users speculated that the man was leveraging Wu's fame for his own gain. Conversely, the female athlete faced criticism for allowing her personal life to potentially overshadow her image and career.

The relationship lasted approximately half a year. The boyfriend was reportedly involved in other romantic relationships while dating Wu, though these allegations were never confirmed by either party.

Following this controversial relationship, Wu's private life became more discreet. She shared fewer details about her romantic endeavors on social media and focused more intently on her competitions. The 29-year-old athlete is currently in a stable relationship with someone outside the entertainment industry. This individual is described as working in a sports-related field, possessing a calm demeanor, and quietly supporting her career.

Wu Yanni competing in the women's 100-meter hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Photo: Xinhua

Unlike her previous public relationships, Wu's current romance is almost entirely out of the public eye. She rarely discusses her private life in interviews.

From a 16-year-old girl in sports school to a renowned athlete on the international stage, Wu has experienced significant transformations in her life and career. The narratives of her four relationships are likened to four distinct stages: youth, maturity, setbacks, and wisdom.

Wu Yanni, born on 28/7/1997 in Zigong, a city in southern Sichuan, began her hurdling career in Neijiang before enrolling at Beijing Sport University. She is often called "China's track and field goddess" and gained popularity on social media for her outgoing personality and tattoos, which the 29-year-old athlete views as symbols of her self-confidence.

Wu is the first Chinese athlete to compete in all five major 100-meter hurdles events: the Olympics, World Championships, World Indoor Championships, Asian Games, and Asian Championships. She has won six national championships in the women's 100-meter hurdles in 2018, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025, and currently holds the Chinese national record in the 60-meter indoor hurdles.

Hong Duy (via Sina)