Did China Dominate the Asian Aquatic Championships?
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Synopsis
The 11th Asian Aquatic Championship concluded with China’s remarkable performance, taking gold in both men’s and women’s water polo. Indian women’s team also made headlines by securing a berth for the 2026 Asian Games despite their final match loss. Excitement filled the venue as celebrities joined the celebration of aquatic sports.
Key Takeaways
- China dominated the championships, winning both gold medals in water polo.
- The Indian women's team qualified for the 2026 Asian Games.
- Bollywood stars attended the event to support athletes.
- The matches showcased thrilling performances and tight competition.
- Participation levels in aquatic sports are rising in Asia.
Ahmedabad, Oct 11 (NationPress) The 11th Asian Aquatic Championship wrapped up in grand style at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, Ahmedabad, with China showcasing its prowess by securing gold medals in both the men’s and women’s water polo finals.
The Chinese women's team triumphed over Japan with a score of 22-17, while the men’s team narrowly defeated Iran 16-15 in a dramatic sudden-death finale after a tied regulation. In contrast, the Indian women’s team placed eighth overall, securing their spot for the 2026 Asian Games despite an 11-18 setback against Hong Kong in their classification match.
The closing day was filled with excitement, featuring appearances by Bollywood star Akshay Kumar and youth sensation Lakshya Lalwani, who came to support the athletes and honor the essence of Asian aquatic sports.
In the women’s final, China outperformed Japan 22-17, led by Zhang Qishuo with an impressive 7 goals, while Wang Xuan (4) and Li Linyun (3) also contributed significantly. Captain Sun Yating and Yan Jing scored 2 goals each, and Li Peiyang, Shi Jingjiarong, Guo Chenghong, and Zhu Yajing each added 1 goal. For Japan, Kobayashi Maho was the top scorer with 6 goals, followed by Captain Fukuda Shoka (4), Lowrey Nina, Sobajima Sakura, and Sanda Yumeka (2 each), along with Bando Riko scoring 1.
In the men's final, China secured the gold after a thrilling 16-15 win over Iran, decided by a penalty shootout (5-4). The goals for China came from Captain Chen Yimin and Chu Chenghao with 2 goals each, while Yu Lijun, Zhang Jinpeng, Wang Beiyi, Lu Yi, Yang Shanglin, Cai Yuhao, and Zhu Gengmin scored 1 goal each. For Iran, Shams Arman was outstanding with 5 goals, and Aghaei Karim Omid and Ghavidelhajiagha Amin contributed 2 goals each, while Mehrikohneshahri Alireza and Adam Mersad added 1 each.
The women's bronze medal match was a nail-biter, with Kazakhstan overcoming Thailand 9-8 in a penalty shootout (3-2). Kaplun Viktoriya and Vorontsova Olga each scored twice, with Anossova Valeriya and Rudneva Milena adding one each. Thailand saw goals from Kwantongtanaree Thanidakarn, Pukkaman Panita, Captain Thinwilal Janista, Kongchouy Thanita, Rueangsappaisan Raksina, and Kwantongtanaree Pittayaporn, all scoring once.
Kazakhstan also triumphed in the men’s bronze medal match, beating Japan 16-14. Captain Ruday Mikhail shone with an impressive 8 goals, while Shmider Alexey and Bobrovskiy Mstislav each contributed 2 goals. Tsoy Eduard, Shakenov Murat, Akhmetov Ruslan, and Akimbay Aldiyar each added 1 goal. For Japan, Captain Ura Enishi netted 4, while Lowrey Jun and Moriya Yuki scored 3 each, with Maeda Toshiyuki, Maeda Atsuya, and Matsuno Ryosuke contributing 1 each.
In the women’s classification, Singapore narrowly defeated Uzbekistan 18-17 to finish 5th. The Indian women concluded their journey in 8th place after their 11-18 loss to Hong Kong.
In the Men's Classification Matches, Singapore triumphed over Thailand 14-12 to secure 5th place, while Hong Kong bested Uzbekistan 16-15 to claim 7th place.
Point of View
It is my duty to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of all participating teams. The Asian Aquatic Championships showcased not only elite athleticism but also the essence of sportsmanship. China's dominance in water polo is commendable, while India's qualification for the 2026 Asian Games reflects their growing prowess in aquatic sports. We stand committed to supporting all athletes and promoting the spirit of competition.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the final results of the Asian Aquatic Championships?
China won gold in both men's and women's water polo finals, with the women defeating Japan 22-17 and the men edging Iran 16-15.
Which teams secured medals in the women's water polo?
Kazakhstan took the bronze medal by defeating Thailand 9-8 in a penalty shootout.
How did the Indian women's water polo team perform?
The Indian women's team finished in 8th place overall but qualified for the 2026 Asian Games.
Who were some notable attendees at the event?
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar and youth icon Lakshya Lalwani were present to support the athletes.
What were the men's bronze medal results?
Kazakhstan won bronze by defeating Japan 16-14.
