Twenty-eight-year-old Zhang Shangwu, the former Universiade gymnastics champion, is now far more recognized as a street performer than for his acrobatics on the floor, thanks to media exposure of his struggles.

The gymnastic moves which had brought him glory are his way of making money for himself and his ailing grandfather. By performing in downtown Beijing, he is able to earn some money every day.

He has received a variety of assistance through his media publicity. On Sunday, philanthropist Chen Guangbiao signaled his willingness to offer Zhang a position in his charity branch and to pay Zhang's grandfather's hospital bills.

All of this looks like a happy turn in Zhang's life. The sympathy he is receiving shows the kindness of the public. But a big question emerges: Does society owe him a good future?

Zhang's fall from promising gymnast to social outcast is not uncommon among Chinese athletes, who often find it difficult to transit to ordinary life after retiring from sports. There are a few successful examples, such as Li Ning, but many fall into the unknown.

There are also foreign examples of fallen stars. Michael Tyson and O.J. Simpson have both been through enough bitterness since their careers ended. 

Zhang quit the national team in 2003 due to injury. His life has been full of hardship since his unsuccessful stint in the Hebei provincial team and chose to retire. He was further brought down by imprisonment for theft in 2007.

There is no single reason to blame for Zhang's downfall. His life has been defined both by the State and his personal choices.

While his past achievements deserve credit, there is no justification for his misdeeds. Self-degeneration should not be condoned anywhere.

Zhang is fortunate now to have a new start with plenty of opportunities and possibilities presented to him. In his own words, "The change happened too fast and I do not know how to plan my future."

It is now up to him how to make full use of these opportunities.

What is more important is that there are a lot more disadvantaged people, who do not have a story like Zhang's to solicit sympathy.

How can we help them better? Not everyone can have the same luck as Zhang.

If Zhang can reemerge success, setting a great example for many others in struggle, he would earn the second feat of his life.