Asian favourite Wushu prepares for Olympic debut at Dakar 2026 YOG

© China Daily
© China Daily

Tianjin, China, March 31, 2026: The 10th World Junior Wushu Championships have concluded in Tianjin, with host nation China collecting 13 gold and four silver medals to finish second in the medal standings, Xinhua News reports.

 

Hong Kong, China topped the table with 13 gold, seven silver and six bronze medals, while Indonesia placed third with nine gold, 11 silver and seven bronze medals.

 

A total of 1,179 participants from 78 countries and regions took part in this year's event, making it the largest in the tournament's history. 

 

Sixteen delegations won gold medals and 29 reached the podium, underscoring the sport's expanding global reach and rising competitiveness.

 

"The popularity and influence of wushu among young people worldwide have reached a new level," said Zhang Yuping, secretary-general of the International Wushu Federation. 

 

"This championship not only showcased the highest level of junior wushu in the world, but also highlighted the promising future of the sport's global development."

 

Wushu is set to make its debut as an official medal event at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, marking its inclusion in the Olympic Movement. 

 

This year's world junior championships also served as a key platform for preparation and talent selection, with 48 athletes qualifying for Dakar 2026.