We are Wu: assessing Chinese fans' socio-cultural identification with the only Chinese footballer in a top European league. Issue 4 (4th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shen, Huawen James; Yan, Libo; Ye Haobin, Ben; Yan, Qi
• Is Part Of: Leisure studies. Volume 40:Issue 4(2021)
• Page Start: 468
• Page End: 479
• Publication Date: 2021-07-04
• Subjects: Sport fandom -- identification -- content analysis -- correlation analysis -- football -- China; Leisure -- Periodicals; Recreation -- Periodicals; 306.4805
• DOI: 10.1080/02614367.2020.1820554
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-4367

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study examined how Chinese football fans identify themselves with Lei Wu, currently the only Chinese footballer playing in a European mainstream league. Chinese fans' social media posts about Wu were compared after scoring vs. not scoring, and after playing vs. playing, in several matches in a row. Qualitative (content analysis) and quantitative (chi-square tests) analyses were conducted. Two major dimensions of identification with Wu emerged, namely athletic (identification with Wu's athleticism) and socio-cultural (identification with Wu as a Chinese icon). There was stronger socio-cultural identification with Wu when he scored goals, but this aspect of identification did not vary based on whether or not he made league appearances. The study makes a unique contribution by studying fandom as a mechanism for expressing cultural pride. The results are discussed in terms of the cultural and policy contexts of contemporary China.