Stephen Curry's attempt at a post-workout autograph session in Beijing was cut short when he was mobbed by an overwhelming crowd of fans. Footage from the event shows the Golden State Warriors guard emerging from a building and initially pausing as a fan offered a jersey to sign.
However, the situation quickly escalated as dozens of fans converged with phones, flags, and memorabilia. Security and staff formed a barrier to guide Curry toward waiting vehicles, but the growing number of people pressing closer forced the abandonment of the autograph opportunity.
The incident highlighted Curry's significant popularity in China, where he has recently embarked on a new commercial partnership. In June, he signed a 10-year agreement with Chinese sportswear company Li-Ning, reportedly worth $400 million, covering basketball, lifestyle, and golf products.
The event also provided a potentially reassuring visual for Warriors fans. Earlier, a brief video of Curry stepping from a vehicle in Beijing had sparked speculation about a possible injury due to a noticeable hitch in his gait. Neither Curry's representatives nor the Warriors had announced any new physical issues.
In the footage captured after his workout, Curry did not appear to favor either leg or display a limp while navigating the crowd. His ability to complete the workout, coupled with his unhindered movement in the recent video, offers a more complete picture than the earlier clip. While concern was understandable given knee trouble that limited him last season, there is currently no official indication of a setback.
Security's swift actions were also deemed understandable, particularly in light of a past incident in Boston where a fan grabbed Curry during a game. The Beijing encounter demonstrated how fan enthusiasm, rather than a physical limitation, led to the hurried departure, suggesting Curry was able to move comfortably.