On top of their game
As the year draws to a close, Xinhua celebrates the cream of China's sporting crop
1. Shi Yuqi (male, badminton)
Shi claimed the men's singles crown at the 2025 BWF World Championships, ending a decade-long title drought for China in the event. He also became the first Chinese player in the BWF World Tour era to sweep the four Super 1000 events. Shi helped China secure a fourth consecutive Sudirman Cup, and led Jiangsu to its sixth National Games men's team title. The 29-year-old was awarded the BWF Men's Singles Player of the Year.
2. Gong Lijiao (female, athletics)
The 36-year-old Gong overcame lingering injuries to win the women's shot put title in her National Games farewell, achieving an unprecedented fifth consecutive National Games crown in the event. Over a 25-year period, Gong has completed a career Grand Slam, winning titles at the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships and National Games.
Most Popular
- The 20th Asian Games open in Nagoya
- Top esports tournament to make China debut this month
- Harbin Marathon draws 30,000 runners along Songhua River
- Like father, like son
- Countdown begins for capital’s track and field showpiece
- Baoshan to host two UIM world championships during the National Day holiday
