[File photo: Wu Minxia]

Wu Minxia, China’s first five-time Olympic diving gold medalist, announced her retirement on Weibo on Dec. 14. The leader of the Chinese national diving team confirmed Wu’s announcement to Chinanews.com soon after.

Wu wrote on her Weibo account, “I started learning to dive when I was 6, and joined the national team at the age of 13. How quickly 25 years fly! Thanks to all of you for your long-time support.”

Wu announced retirement on her Weibo.

The 31-year-old diver earned a record-tying fifth gold medal by winning the women's synchronized 3-meter springboard along with her partner Shi Tingmao at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The accomplishment made her one of China’s most successful Olympians ever.

Zhou Jihong, leader of the national diving team, confirmed Wu’s retirement in an interview with Chinanews.com. Wu’s official decommissioning ceremony will be held in Beijing’s Water Cube on Dec. 20, according to Chinese media.