There is a perception that in China, sport is approached primarily as a vehicle for national achievement rather than personal enjoyment or sportsmanship.

The system emphasizes results, medals, and international prestige above all else. As a result, significant state resources are directed toward disciplines that maximize medal counts, including niche events that may not be widely followed by the general public.

This medal-driven model has been highly effective in producing podium finishes, but critics argue that it can sometimes overshadow the intrinsic values of sport such as respect, mutual appreciation, and enjoyment of competition.

In the context of solo figure skating, sportsmanship carries particular importance. Athletes traditionally remain present to watch and acknowledge each other’s performances, regardless of rivalry or results.

Choosing not to attend a competitor’s routine can be interpreted as a breach of that unwritten code of respect. If a team skips another skater’s performance due to dissatisfaction with judging outcomes or competitive tension, it risks reinforcing the perception that winning is valued more highly than the spirit of the sport itself.