Chinese gymnastics legendary head coach Lu Shanzhen dies of heart attack at 63

Former Chinese gymnastics team head coach Lu Shanzhen died of a heart attack at home in Beijing on Saturday, according to the Chinese Gymnastics Association (CGA).

Lu, 63, was well known for his excellence as a coach and for leading Team China to historical heights, including the first women's World Championship team title in 2006 and first women's Olympic team gold in 2008.

The legendary coach built the 'Golden Generation' of Team China, developing young world and Olympic champions like Cheng Fei, Bi Wenjing and Liu Xuan.

"Lu has a unique understanding and respect of women's gymnastics. He always insisted on individualizing every one's learning. He made great contributions to the development of the Chinese Gymnastics," CGA said in a statement.

According to CGA, Lu's family decided to simplify his funeral due to the resurgence of the COVID-19 cases in the Chinese capital.