#China #Beijing #International Sports #Chinese Sports #2025 Highlights

Unveiling the Top 10 Chinese and International Sports News of 2025

As 2025 comes to an end, the realm of sports has witnessed extraordinary milestones, impressive performances, and inspiring events both in China and around the world. Presented by the People's Daily Sports Department, Chief Editor's Office, and the New Media Center in collaboration with People's Daily Online and the Global Times, the announcement of the top 10 sports news is a testament to the fervor and dedication present in the sporting community.

Highlights of Chinese Sports News in 2025

1. Successful Completion of the 9th Asian Winter Games

Held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province from February 7-14, the Games only highlighted China’s organizational prowess but also shone a spotlight on its athletes. The event saw over 1,200 competitors from 34 nations participating, with China clinching an unprecedented 32 gold medals, culminating in a total of 85 medals, the best performance in the event’s history.

2. 15th National Games and 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities

On November 9, Guangzhou hosted the 15th National Games, welcomed by President Xi Jinping. This historic event was co-hosted with Hong Kong and Macao, featuring a staggering 34 competition sports and setting eight world records. Moreover, the successful convergence of the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities highlighted China’s commitment to inclusivity in sports, with 7,824 athletes competing across various disciplines.

3. Recognition of Model Sports Units and Athletes

President Xi Jinping recognized exemplary units and individuals in sports during a commendation ceremony in Guangzhou. This acknowledgment aims to inspire athletes across the nation to strive for excellence, contributing to China's goal of becoming a significant sports powerhouse.

4. 12th World Games Achievements

Following the massive success of the World Games held in Chengdu from August 7-17, where China ranked first in medals, a monumental achievement reflected the country’s advancement and depth in sports.

5. Government Initiatives to Boost the Sports Industry

The General Office of the State Council released guidelines aimed at fostering high-quality development in China’s sports industries, projecting a considerable increase in the sports economy by 2030.

6. Surge of Local Leagues From 'Suchao' Phenomenon

A newfound local sports culture emerged with events like the Jiangsu City Football League gaining tremendous traction, demonstrating grassroots engagement and profound effects on community development.

7. Ju Wenjun: A Chess Powerhouse

Renowned chess player Ju Wenjun made headlines by winning the Women’s World Chess Championship for the fifth consecutive time, solidifying her legacy in the sport and showcasing China's continued excellence in chess.

8. Hosting of the 33rd Winter Universiade

Changchun won the bid to host the upcoming 33rd Winter World University Games scheduled for January 2027, reinforcing China's growing influence in international sports.

9. Inaugural Asian Women's Champions League Title

The Wuhan team captured the inaugural Asian Women's Champions League title, marking a significant achievement for Chinese women's football.

10. Consistent Excellence in Badminton

China's badminton team claimed the Sudirman Cup for the fourth consecutive time, an encouraging sign for the country’s reputation in international badminton.

Top International Sports News in 2025

1. Historic Leadership in the IOC

Kirsty Coventry became the first African and female president of the International Olympic Committee, heralding a new era for sports governance.

2. UN General Assembly's Olympic Truce Resolution

The Resolutions ensuring peaceful observation of the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Games sets a tone of cooperation among nations.

3. Los Angeles 2028 Olympics Competition Events Finalized

The IOC has confirmed an exciting lineup for the 2028 Summer Olympics, indicating an exciting future for athletes.

4. FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparations

The upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026 has unveiled the group matchups, marking a historic expansion with 48 teams.

5. World Records Shattered in Athletics

Remarkable athletic performances included new records set in pole vaulting, discus throw, and middle-distance running during the World Athletics Championships.

6. UNESCO's International Taijiquan Day

A significant cultural achievement with UNESCO's establishment of an International Taijiquan Day celebrates this traditional Chinese martial art's global impact.

7. Dramatic Success at the World Aquatics Championships

China topped the gold medal tally at this year's World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, underlining the country's prowess in swimming.

8. Historic NBA Draft

Yang Hansen became the first Chinese player selected in the NBA first round in nearly two decades, signifying a potential resurgence of Chinese talent in basketball.

9. Transformation in World Table Tennis

Reforms brought forth notable changes aiming to increase participation and enhance the competitive structure within professional table tennis.

10. Ballon d'Or Awards

Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmati made headlines by winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or awards, further celebrating sporting excellence on the global stage.

The announcement of these top news highlights showcases the vibrant landscape of sports for 2025. Both China and the international sporting community continue to inspire progress, foster talent, and celebrate incredible achievements, setting a promising tone for the future of global sports.