In 2004, at the Olympic Games in Athens, Liu Xiang delivered one of the most iconic performances in track and field history. Running the 110-meter hurdles with flawless precision and explosive speed, he crossed the finish line in 12.91 seconds, tying the world record and setting a new Olympic record. His victory marked a groundbreaking moment: Liu became the first Chinese male athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field, instantly becoming a symbol of national pride and global athlet