Zhou Yaqin became a social media darling after a video of her heart-melting antics on the podium went viral.

The 18-year-old gymnast, who took silver on the balance beam on her Olympic debut on Monday, was posing for photographs with gold and bronze medallists, Alice D’Amato and Manila Esposito, after collecting their medals.

Watching the Italian duo engage in the podium tradition of posing for a photo while biting their medals, Zhou’s eyes widened and she appeared puzzled.

Then, moments later, she brought the medal to her lips and smiled, mimicking their gestures.

Of course, the adorable moment sparked an outpouring of affection on social media.

“Like a little sister copying her big sisters and it’s too cute!” one commented on X.

“She surprised everyone by imitating the pose to make the final photo perfect,” another said. “Pure innocence. Pure humility. And pure good vibes. A beautiful moment.”

Fans hailed the moment as “priceless”, for it reflected the Olympic spirit of breaking down barriers and bringing unity.

“What a special and emotional moment,” one said on X. “It’s wonderful to see how sport unites cultures and creates unforgettable moments, even on the Olympic podium. A beautiful gesture of camaraderie between athletes.”

Some felt represented and related, with one user joking: “Me trying to fit in at any social event.”

Zhou scored 14.100 on the beam to win silver. D’Amato hit 14.366 for her first Olympic gold, while her compatriot Esposito took bronze with 14.000 from the judges.

In that individual beam final, the hot favourite Simone Biles lost her balance and fell off the apparatus, costing herself a chance to make even more history in the French capital.

 - SCMP