Diving is one of the most popular sports in China, and Guo Jingjing, 27, is its diva - reportedly China's highest paid female athlete.

A double Olympic and eight-times world champion, her colourful personal life, ability and striking looks have transfixed the Chinese public.

She is as well known for her appearance at society functions and in the pages of gossip magazines as she is for her acrobatics from the springboard.

Guo has said Beijing may be her swansong, and she is favourite to go out with golds in the 3m individual and synchro events.