2024 has been an unforgettable year for sports in China. From breaking world records to hosting monumental national games, Chinese athletes have left an indelible mark on the global stage. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 sporting events that thrilled the nation this year:
1. Historic Olympic Triumph
China delivered its best overseas Olympic performance since 1984, capturing an impressive 40 gold, 27 silver, and 24 bronze medals. The nation’s athletes showcased exceptional talent across various disciplines, elevating China’s standing in the world of sports.
2. Dominance at the Paris Paralympics
At the Paris Paralympics, Chinese para-athletes achieved outstanding success, earning 94 gold, 76 silver, and 50 bronze medals. Breaking 20 world records, China topped the overall medal table for the sixth consecutive time, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and excellence.
3. Zheng Qinwen’s Tennis Glory
Rising tennis star Zheng Qinwen made history by clinching China’s first Olympic singles gold medal in tennis. Reaching the finals at both the Australian Open and the WTA Finals, she concluded the year ranked World No. 5, inspiring a new generation of tennis enthusiasts.
4. Pan Zhanle’s Record-Breaking Swims
Swimmer Pan Zhanle shattered the men’s 100m freestyle world record twice. His first record came at the World Aquatics Championships as part of the 4x100m freestyle relay team. He then broke his own record at Paris 2024, securing China’s first Olympic gold in the men’s 100m freestyle.
5. 14th National Winter Games in Inner Mongolia
Inner Mongolia hosted China’s 14th National Winter Games in February. Over 3,000 athletes competed in 176 events, representing 35 delegations. The games celebrated winter sports, with 30 delegations taking home at least one medal.
6. National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities
From November 22nd to 30th, Hainan Province welcomed nearly 7,000 athletes for China’s 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities. Participants from 35 delegations competed in 18 sports and three demonstration events, highlighting China’s rich cultural diversity.
7. First National Youth Games for Major Team Sports
Hunan Province hosted China’s first National Youth Games for Football, Basketball, and Volleyball. Offering both boys’ and girls’ categories, the event saw Shandong Province top the medal table with four golds and two silvers, showcasing the country’s young athletic talent.
8. Triumph at the BWF Thomas and Uber Cup Finals
In Chengdu, China captured both the men’s and women’s titles at the BWF Thomas and Uber Cup Finals after a 12-year wait. The men’s team hoisted the Thomas Cup for the 11th time, while the women’s team secured the Uber Cup for a record 16th time.
9. Table Tennis Supremacy Continues
At the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in Busan, South Korea, China lifted its 11th straight men’s trophy and sixth consecutive women’s crown. Stars Fan Zhendong and Sun Yingsha were honored as the best male and female players, solidifying China’s dominance in table tennis.
10. Pioneering 8K UHD Broadcasts at Paris 2024
The China Media Group made technological history by providing over 60 hours of groundbreaking public 8K UHD international broadcasts during Paris 2024. Their ultra-high-definition live vans delivered stunning visuals for athletics events, the closing ceremony, and produced global signals for gymnastics, table tennis, badminton, and sport climbing.
As the year draws to a close, these moments have not only brought pride to China but have also inspired sports fans around the world. Here’s to even more exciting achievements in the years to come!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
