liu shaoang

Born on March 13, 1998, in Budapest, Hungary, Shaoang Liu embarked on his speed skating journey alongside his elder brother, Shaolin Sándor Liu. Their interest in short track speed skating began in 2006, following two years of swimming. After initial training in China for a year and a half, the brothers returned and started accumulating wins in various European competitions. A pivotal moment in their careers came in 2012 when Chinese coach Zhang Jing began working with them, which significantly influenced their development. Liu also pursued academic endeavors, studying Sports Management at the University of Debrecen, demonstrating a commitment to both his athletic and personal growth.

Liu Shaoang has achieved significant milestones in his career, initially competing for Hungary. At the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, he was part of the Hungarian team that secured the country’s first-ever Winter Olympic gold medal in the men’s 5000m relay, setting a new world record. His success continued at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where he became the first Hungarian to win an individual Winter Olympic gold in short track speed skating, clinching the men’s 500m title. He also earned two bronze medals at these Games in the 1000m and the 2000m mixed relay. In November 2022, Liu and his brother sought and received permission from the Hungarian National Skating Federation to change their nationality, a change that saw Shaoang beginning to represent China in 2023.

Since his transition to representing China, Liu Shaoang has continued to be a prominent figure in short track speed skating. At the 2025 ISU World Short-Track Speed Skating Championships in Beijing, he contributed to China’s success by earning a bronze medal in the men’s 1500m and a silver in the 5000m relay. Despite an injury sustained during the relay semifinals, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment, insisting on competing. His head coach, Zhang Jing, highlighted his team-first mentality emphasizing that Liu skated “not for himself, but for everyone else on that team.” This showcases his dedication and leadership qualities, making him a valuable athlete and an inspiring figure.