A Chinese swimmer who shot to fame during the Rio Olympics for his incredible physique has been dropped from the country's swimming team.

Chinese authorities confirmed that 23-year-old Ning Zetao has been dropped from the team for violating several rules including signing sponsorship deals without prior consent.

Fans of the athlete have flocked to social media to defend the sports star, with one fan saying 'they're jealous of his hot bod.'

Handsome: The Chinese swimmer shot to fame after taking part in the Rio Olympics in 2015

He was greeted by thousands of fans after he arrived back in China in August 2016

A statement from the Chinese Swimming Federation was leaked on February 22 saying that he had violated team rules by signing sponsorships without consulting them first.

According to Sixth Tone, last year Ning was almost barred from attending the Rio Olympics because he promoted Yili Group, a competitor of the team's official sponsor China Mengniu Dairy.

In January this year, he signed a deal with Adidas, rumoured to be 10 million yuan (£1.1 million) to be their brand ambassador in the country. It's caused problems as the team's official sponsor is Adidas' rival 361 degrees.

Ning Zetao celebrates winning the gold medal at the Kazan World Swimming Championships

Ning Zetao competes in the Men's 100m heats during the Rio Olympics in 2015

Famous star: Athletes must get approval before attending events or taking up sponsorship

In China, athletes must get approval first before attending events, or taking up sponsorship.

Fans have flocked to social media site Weibo to defend the sports star.

One user wrote: I still like him even after he's fired - he's handsome and buff and he's not at fault. Those who keep insulting him are just jealous of his hot bod. Which athlete hasn't been signing commercial endorsements? Don't embarrass yourself.'

One fan claimed that people criticising the swimming star were jealous of his physique

He has appeared in adverts for products such as milk which caused controversy at the time

While another commented: 'Sooner or later he will be proved innocent. Be strong train good.'

And one user said: 'No matter the rumours, we will always be with you because we know that you are always thinking for the country. You are a bright shining person, bringing us positive energy. Come on we support you!'

The swimmer has 3 billion views on his Weibo page. While the hashtag 'Ning Zetao fired from Chinese Swimming team' has 17 million views.

Ning Zetao won the men's 100 metre freestyle at the World Championships in 2015. However during his appearance at the Rio Olympics, he failed to make the final in both the 50 and 100 metre freestyle events.

Zetao was named China's Sports Personality of the Year in 2015.

He became a household name during the Rio Olympics after pictures emerged of his toned physique.