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Along with records broken and medals celebrated, competing at the Olympics is more often littered with narrow defeats, last-gasp errors and mental meltdowns that build true character and sportsmanship.
Yu Yutan, a member of China's visually impaired soccer team, expressed his eagerness to enjoy the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as he familiarized himself with the stadium near the Eiffel Tower in Paris on Tuesday night.
"We're fully prepared and eagerly anticipating the competition. I'm looking forward to the feeling of stepping onto this beautiful pitch," he said.
The Paris Paralympic Games began in earnest on Wednesday evening with an opening ceremony at Place de la Concorde, where around 270 members of the Chinese delegation were present. Wheelchair fencer Gu Haiyan and weightlifter Qi Yongkai had the honor of serving as flag bearers for Team China.
The Games will continue through Sept 8.
China's 284 Paralympic athletes will compete in 19 sports across 302 events. With meticulous preparation behind them, the team is determined to achieve outstanding results.
Wei Wei, a member of the Chinese Paralympic swimming team's support staff, said that the team has been acclimating in Paris for nearly a week and is in solid shape.
"The athletes are delivering high-quality training sessions and maintaining excellent mental focus," Wei said.
On Wednesday morning, the team completed its final training session before the competition, which begins on Thursday.
In the swimming events at the Paris Paralympics, running from Thursday to Sept 7, 141 gold medals are up for grabs. Wei said that China's 46 swimmers are fully prepared and determined to perform at their best.
Meanwhile, China's Paralympic cycling team, a blend of veteran and emerging athletes, is also ready to compete. Coach Li Peng said that individualized training plans have been tailored to each cyclist's strengths.
"Our athletes are committed, and our coaches, medical staff and technicians are all working in sync, united in their drive to excel," Li said.
Xu Min, a member of the Chinese delegation's medical team, detailed its crucial role in supporting the athletes.
"Our main focus is on injury prevention during training and competition, as well as delivering prompt medical and rehabilitation services," Xu said.
The medical team is a multidisciplinary unit, consisting of 23 specialists from orthopedics, rehabilitation, endocrinology, ophthalmology and other fields. The experts are drawn from both sports-specific hospitals and leading general hospitals, ensuring comprehensive care for the athletes, Xu said.
Sports play an essential role in enhancing the physical and mental well-being of the disabled, while also aiding their integration into society. By the end of last year, China had established 12,463 rehabilitation centers nationwide, supported by a workforce of 360,000 professionals, according to the China Disabled Persons' Federation.
Guo Lingling, a powerlifting champion at the Tokyo Paralympics, faced significant challenges in her youth due to polio, which left her dependent on a wheelchair and crutches. However, powerlifting provided a transformative source of strength and clarity.
"Powerlifting has allowed me to connect with new friends, experience diverse perspectives, and find a renewed sense of purpose," Guo said.
The famous motto of Roland Garros, "victory belongs to the most tenacious," echoed with new significance this summer, as Zheng Qinwen clinched a historic gold medal for China in women's singles at the Paris Olympics.
With her tenacity, Zheng not only secured the first-ever Olympic gold for a Chinese tennis player, but also surpassed Li Na's previous best finish of fourth place at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Now, as the Paris Paralympics approach, another chapter may be written on the same red clay. Zhu Zhenzhen, the runner-up in this year's French Open wheelchair women's singles, is set to carry that spirit forward. Representing China, Zhu is aiming for Paralympic gold, further emphasizing the country's rise in global tennis.
The wheelchair tennis competition at the Paris Paralympics is set to take place at Roland Garros from Aug 29 to Sept 7. It will mark Zhu's third appearance at the Paralympic Games, where she will compete in both the women's singles and doubles competition.
Zhu made her Paralympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games, advancing to the quarterfinals in both singles and doubles. She fondly remembers the experience of exchanging pins with athletes from around the world, a unique and enjoyable tradition that left a lasting impression.
At the Tokyo Paralympics, Zhu reached the singles quarterfinals and placed fourth in doubles. Last year, she claimed silver medals in both singles and doubles at the Hangzhou Asian Para Games, solidifying her position as one of China's top wheelchair tennis athletes.
Already in Paris to begin training, Zhu has set her sights on higher goals for the upcoming Paralympic Games. After a strong performance earlier this year, she is filled with determination to achieve a new milestone on the global stage.
"Everyone has a dream of winning gold," said Zhu, currently ranked sixth in the world. "I want to see the Chinese flag raised to the very top."
Zhu is no stranger to success on these red clay courts. In June, she reached the final of the French Open, narrowly losing to world No 1 Diede de Groot in a hard-fought 2-1 battle.
Despite the loss, Zhu feels the gap between them is narrowing.
"In the past, I couldn't even win a set against her, but this time, I pushed her all the way," she said.
The clay courts of Roland Garros seem to suit Zhu's style of play.
"I'm a hardworking player, particularly strong at chasing down the ball. On clay, that gives me an advantage and creates more opportunities," she said.
With a gold medal dream driving her, Zhu admits she has imagined what it would feel like to reach the highest part of the podium. "Just thinking about winning Olympic gold gets me excited," she said.
Determined youth
At 35, Zhu has dedicated 18 years to mastering wheelchair tennis. Stricken with osteomyelitis at two, leaving her unable to fully use her legs, Zhu's passion for sports has remained undiminished.
"I was always active — kicking shuttlecocks, skipping rope, playing with elastic bands and playing badminton," she recalled.
"Even with crutches, I was lively and engaged and playing with other kids.
"For me, a disability in my lower limbs simply means I can't walk. With crutches, I was just like any other child," Zhu stated.
Zhu's journey with wheelchair tennis began at 17. Transitioning from a regular wheelchair to a sports-specific one proved challenging initially, however, her wheelchair has since become an extension of her body.
Today, Zhu moves seamlessly around the court, demonstrating refined control and agility.
"Wheelchair tennis presents unique challenges. Normal players move from side to side easily, but we must navigate turns and control the chair manually," Zhu explained.
"Operating the chair and preparing for a shot requires different skills compared with using your feet."
"For us, coordinating hand movements to control the chair, while simultaneously setting up for shots, is far more complex than for normal players," she added.
Through dedicated practice, Zhu has achieved remarkable success on the court. At the 2011 National Disabled Games, Zhu secured gold medals in both the doubles and team events.
Her notable achievements continued in 2018 at the Jakarta Asian Para Games, where she and her partner Huang Huimin won the women's doubles title, making history as China's first gold medalists in wheelchair tennis at the continental tournament.
As Zhu got to know, through taking part in international tournaments, that wheelchair tennis is featured at the sport's premier events — the Grand Slam tournaments — she saw a broader stage and greater opportunities.
"I aspire to reach higher levels and compete in major tournaments to further refine my skills," Zhu said.
Pioneering player
In 2018, Zhu became China's first professional wheelchair tennis player. Without the resources for a coach, she managed her travel alone, propelling her everyday wheelchair and pushing her suitcase with one hand, while carrying her competition wheelchair with the other.
Handling everything from tournament registrations to logistics, Zhu initially relied on translation apps, but soon improved her English. She can now efficiently plan her competition schedule and manage all the details herself.
However, unexpected issues still arise. During a tournament in Spain, Zhu's luggage went missing.
"I had to buy new clothes and a racket. I borrowed a wheelchair and equipment from the event organizers and other athletes, which allowed me to compete," she recalled.
In her view, winning a match doesn't mean she is free from mistakes, so she continuously works to improve her skills. After a defeat, she analyzes each point to establish what went wrong and then makes adjustments.
"I must keep pushing forward until I win. I am very strict with myself, always looking for what I didn't do well in training and in the match, and trying to fix it," she said.
Dong Fuli, coach of the Chinese wheelchair tennis team, noted that Zhu has shown significant growth through her years of international competition.
"Her vision and perspective have broadened greatly," Dong said. "She is more diligent than most, working hard on flexibility and physical conditioning. She is also brave enough to challenge and surpass herself."
Despite frequent international competitions, Zhu still lacks a stable support team, and sometimes has to look for coaches and training partners at short notice. Although she has secured sponsorship for her equipment, she continues to seek additional financial support.
"To reach the world's top level, a more professional support team is essential, especially a stable collaboration with high-level coaches, to achieve higher rankings," Zhu said.
"I hope wheelchair tennis in China will receive more attention and support. I have a strong sense of mission, and wish to help young athletes, creating better conditions for them, and elevating Chinese wheelchair tennis to a world-class level."
Last October, the International Tennis Federation held a wheelchair tennis ranking tournament in Beijing — a first for China.
"I hope more international-level events will be held domestically in the future, allowing us to accumulate points and improve our rankings at home," Zhu stated. "I encourage young Chinese players to participate in more competitions, gain experience, learn from strong opponents and improve themselves.
"I love being an athlete and having the responsibility of making it possible for everyone to play the sport. I cherish being able to embody the Paralympic spirit of understanding, friendship, solidarity and fair play, and promote these values in my daily life," she said.
As one of China's flagship teams at the Paralympics, the swimming squad has wasted no time in adjusting to the rigors of competition in Paris. Having battled long flights and jet lag, the team is now settling in, readying itself for the upcoming games.
Set to take place from Aug 29 to Sept 7 at the Paris La Defense Arena, the swimming competition will see China field 46 athletes — 21 men and 25 women — making the team the second-largest contingent after athletics.
Wei Wei, a staff member on China's Paralympic swimming team, said that the team, along with the second batch of the Chinese delegation, arrived at the Paralympic Village in Paris on the evening of Aug 21.
Despite the long-haul flight and having to adjust to the time difference, the athletes have quickly acclimated, and the team is in good overall shape as the athletes prepare for competition.
At the Tokyo Paralympics, China's swimming team delivered a remarkable performance, taking home 19 golds, 19 silvers, and 18 bronze medals. These achievements have heightened expectations for their showing in Paris.
However, Wei noted that, this time around, the team faces greater challenges. Beyond climate, diet and time zone adjustments, classification changes have increased the difficulty for some of the Tokyo gold medalists to defend their titles.
The Chinese swimmers are slated to compete in more than 80 events at the Paris Paralympics. Despite the increased challenges, the team remains determined to overcome obstacles and deliver a strong performance, Wei said.
Veteran swimmer Lu Dong, known as the "armless mermaid", has competed in several Paralympic Games, including London, Rio, and Tokyo, and has won multiple gold medals.
"Having competed internationally so often, I've quickly adjusted to the time difference," Lu said. "I just finished a training session at the gym. Since my events are still a bit of time away, I hope to be in peak condition when the competition starts."
Before coming to Paris, Lu treated herself to a special pedicure. The designs on her toenails include the Paralympic logo, the Chinese flag, and a gold medal — along with blue representing the color of water.
"I hope to deliver my best swim this time and show even more progress than before," she said.
The youngest athlete on Team China, 15-year-old swimmer Jiang Hui, will compete in six events. She began training the day after her arrival in Paris, spending up to five hours a day in the pool. Competing in her first Paralympic Games, Jiang hopes to surpass her personal best.
"I don't have much experience in international competitions, and with so many events, my coach just wants me to learn from the experience," Jiang said. She recalled feeling overjoyed and excited when she found out she would be representing China at the Paralympics, immediately sharing the news with her family and friends.
The Chinese team includes both emerging talents like Jiang and seasoned veterans. Tokyo Paralympic gold medalist Jia Hongguang, who only became a swimmer at the age of 21, will compete in his fourth Paralympic Games in Paris.
At 36, Jia acknowledges this may be his final Games and hopes to finish his journey with a strong performance.
Now working in disability-related fields, Jia expressed his desire to inspire more people with disabilities to fully embrace life through his efforts and achievements.
Since preparing for the Hangzhou Asian Para Games last year, the Chinese swimming team has been working on a comprehensive training plan in sync with the upcoming Paris Paralympics.
According to Wei, a scientific research team has been closely involved with the swimmers, assisting with physiological and biochemical testing, physical conditioning and psychological support.
During winter training, a special underwater technical analysis was conducted to ensure the athletes' techniques meet the required standards, providing valuable feedback for the coaches.
In June, the 2024 National Disabled Swimming Invitational Competition was held in Beijing. It served as both a training session, and an opportunity for the athletes to fine-tune their competitive readiness for the Paris Games.
The iconic Arc de Triomphe, now illuminated by the vibrant red, blue and green of the Paralympic emblem, will serve as the backdrop for around 4,400 athletes from around the world as they take part in Wednesday night's opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
China's 516-member delegation has spent days preparing with adaptive training, and is poised to showcase the strength, skill and determination of the nation's athletes to the world.
With an average age of 25.8 years old, China's 284 Paralympians are set to participate in 19 sports, including archery, athletics and badminton, across 302 events at the 17th Summer Paralympic Games, which will be held in Paris from Wednesday to Sept 8.
This marks China's 11th delegation at the Summer Paralympics. All athletes are amateurs, representing a variety of professions, ranging from workers and farmers to students, civil servants and freelancers.
China made its Paralympics debut in 1984, when Ping Yali won the country's first Paralympic gold medal in the women's long jump. In 2021, at the Tokyo Paralympics, China secured 207 medals, including 96 golds, making it to the top of the gold medal count and the overall standings.
In recent Paralympic Games, China has established itself as a dominant force in sports such as wheelchair fencing, swimming, powerlifting, athletics, table tennis, archery, shooting and badminton.
Veteran track and field athlete Yao Juan, preparing for her seventh Paralympics, is filled with anticipation. "I'll be giving everything I have in the shot put and discus events, while also passing on the knowledge and experience I've gained over the years to help our younger athletes succeed," the 40-year-old said.
China's women's wheelchair basketball team, which won a historic silver medal in Tokyo, is determined to go one step further this time. The team has been refining its lineup and tactics, bolstered by international warm-up matches in May.
"We're ready," said head coach Chen Qi. "I hope the girls will perform to the best of their ability and have no regrets."
At Hall 4 of the South Paris Arena, Zhao Shuai, a key player in China's Paralympic table tennis team, has been rigorously preparing for the Games. Engaged in the men's singles, doubles and mixed doubles, Zhao has been dedicating long hours to training, aiming to keep his physical and technical skills at their highest levels.
"Every training session and match opportunity is precious to me," Zhao said. "I'm focused on maintaining optimal condition and sharp reflexes."
At an archery training ground near Les Invalides, China's Paralympic archers have been honing their skills. After landing a bull's-eye, Gan Jun, competing in his first Paralympics, said, "Wind speed and direction play a big role in how the arrow lands. I'm working to adapt quickly and get into top form." Like many others on the team, Gan is eager to take on the challenge of the Paris Games.
Dong Zhi, coach of China's Paralympic archery team, has noted a warm spirit of camaraderie among athletes from different countries since they arrived in Paris. "It feels like joining a large family here," he said. "Athletes often exchange small gifts and share insights on topics like wheelchair modifications. It's a vibrant platform for interaction and exchanges."
Ma Litao, head of the delegation's general office, said the top priority in the training and competition of Paralympians is ensuring their safety, preventing further injuries and avoiding any worsening of existing conditions.
Zhang Chenglin, a staff member from the delegation's sports and competition team, said the athletes have settled into their routines, and all equipment checks by the International Paralympic Committee have been completed.
"Currently, all teams are engaged in adaptive training, with preparations fully in place. Operations are running smoothly, safely and with precision as we gear up for the start of the Games," he said.
The Chinese Paralympic Delegation for the 17th Summer Paralympic Games in Paris announced on Monday that women's wheelchair fencer Gu Haiyan and men's powerlifter Qi Yongkai will carry the flag at the opening ceremony.
Gu, a Paralympic champion, clinched gold in both the women's foil individual (Category A) and the women's foil team event at the Tokyo Paralympics. This year, she will compete in five events: foil, epee, and saber individual, as well as foil and epee team events.
Qi, who also secured gold in the men's 59kg powerlifting event at the Tokyo Games, will return to defend his title in the same category.
The opening ceremony will take place on the evening of August 28, set against the iconic backdrop of the Champs-Elysees and the historic Place de la Concorde.
China's Paralympic delegation arrived in Paris on Wednesday, ready to compete in 19 sports and 302 events, including archery, athletics, badminton, wheelchair basketball, fencing and tennis.
With only a few days remaining until the start of the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, thousands of para-athletes from across the globe have gathered in the Paralympic Village in Paris, where they are finalizing their preparations for the upcoming competition.
The Paralympic Village, located in the northern suburbs of Paris in the Seine-Saint-Denis department, reopened on Aug 21 after a week of preparations following the conclusion of the Olympic Games on Aug 13.
This brief window allowed organizers to make the necessary adjustments to accommodate the upcoming Paralympic events.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Village is fully accessible and thoughtfully designed to accommodate the needs of all Para athletes. The residential areas and apartments are step-free, and electric sockets have been positioned 45 centimeters above the floor to ensure easy access for athletes with various disabilities.
Ludivine Munos, head of Paralympic Integration for Paris 2024, shared that the Paris 2024 Paralympic Village has resolved all the inconveniences she experienced during her time as an athlete staying in the Village.
"For me, the biggest point was that I can invite my colleagues to my room without having to consider accessibility," she said.
In the Main Dining Hall, buffet counters are set at a height that allows athletes in wheelchairs to easily access food. The trays provided are made from non-slip materials, and carts are available to help athletes move their trays with ease.
The Village fitness center is open 24/7, providing athletes with around-the-clock access to more than 300 pieces of equipment, ensuring they can optimize their training schedules. Additionally, a polyclinic - a fully equipped mini-hospital - operates daily to serve the medical needs of athletes and residents.
Chinese Paralympic badminton player Lin Naili, who is staying in a two-bedroom apartment with his coach and teammates, praised the accessibility of both his living space and the wider Paralympic Village.
The room's electrical outlets are conveniently placed within reach from a wheelchair, while the bathroom facilities, including the sink and toilet, are set at optimal heights. The shower is also equipped with a seat with handrails, he said.
"We arrived at the village on the Aug 21. There's a gym, dining hall and convenience store, and the riverside setting is quite pleasant," Lin said. "We're currently getting used to the venues, working on fitness and strength training, and taking time to explore the village and familiarize ourselves with the area."
As the Paris Paralympic Games are on the horizon, the Chinese Paralympic delegation has arrived at the Paralympic Village in Paris, where preparations are now in their final stages. The delegation, poised and ready, is hopeful for strong results as the competition begins.
Zhang Chenglin, a staff from the delegation's sports & competition team, noted that China will be fielding 19 teams in total at the Paris Paralympic Games. As of now, 18 teams have already moved into the village, with the canoeing team expected to arrive shortly.
According to Zhang, the teams arrived in Paris on Aug 21 in two separate batches. Recently, athletes have settled into their routines, with training progressing smoothly. Equipment checks conducted by the International Paralympic Committee have all been successfully completed.
"Currently, all teams are engaged in adaptive training, with preparations fully in place. Operations are running smoothly, safely, and with precision as we gear up for the start of the Games," he said.
According to Ma Litao, head of the delegation's general office, a key focus has been the safeguarding of athletes' well-being amid the significant temperature differences between Paris and China in recent days. He stated that the delegation has intensified efforts to ensure proper accommodation, sleep, nutrition, and the management of any temporary health concerns.
Ma pointed out that a key distinction between the Paralympic and Olympic Games lies in the fact that all Paralympic athletes have varying degrees of disabilities. As a result, the foremost priority in both training and competition is ensuring athlete safety, preventing further injuries, and avoiding any worsening of existing conditions.
The medical team supporting the Chinese Paralympic delegation plays a critical role, overseeing pre-competition training precautions and providing timely medical and rehabilitation services.
Xu Min, a staff member of the medical team, noted that the 23-person multidisciplinary group is composed of specialists in orthopedics, rehabilitation, endocrinology, ophthalmology, and more, drawn from both sports-specific hospitals and leading general hospitals.
The Paris Paralympic Games, which run from Aug 28 to Sept 8, will feature 22 sports and 549 events. China's 284 athletes will compete in 19 sports and 302 events.
Before heading to Paris, Chinese Paralympians shared their aspirations for the upcoming Games. Many said they are determined to strive for new heights and not to let themselves or others down. They also wish to raise public awareness for para-sports and showcase their abilities to a broader audience.
A senior sports official reiterated China's zero-tolerance approach toward doping on Tuesday while seeing off the Chinese Paralympic delegation heading to the Paris Paralympic Games, and urged the athletes to earn respect through strength and integrity.
Speaking at a mobilization conference for the Paralympians attending the Games from Aug 28 to Sept 8, Liu Guoyong, a deputy director of the General Administration of Sport of China, said anti-doping efforts are crucial for the physical and mental well-being of disabled athletes, the development of para-sports and the national image.
He urged strengthened management of food, drugs and nutritional supplements to prevent incidents of accidental doping, ensuring a zero-tolerance policy and a commitment to a doping-free environment.
"We must be cautious, especially when it comes to the management of food, medicine and nutritional products," he told Team China.
"We have to make sure any accidental consumption incidents are nipped in the bud, and there is no room for slip-ups."
Liu said there will be unique challenges, including disruptions and interference from Western powers at the upcoming Paris Games, and athletes may have to deal with problems beyond their on-field performances and technical preparations.
He encouraged athletes to concentrate on excelling in their competitions, emphasizing the importance of performing to the best of their abilities to earn respect.
Liu made the remarks in response to false doping accusations by foreign media during the Olympic Games that targeted two Chinese swimmers linked to a food contamination accident in 2022.
The rigorous doping tests that the two swimmers underwent during the Games sparked outrage on Chinese social media. They were especially notable when compared to the questionable procedures employed by the United States Anti-Doping Agency on its own athletes, leading to discussions about unfair treatment.
China's 516-member Paralympic delegation was officially formed in Beijing on Friday, ready to compete in 19 sports and 302 events, including archery, athletics, badminton, wheelchair basketball, fencing and tennis.
Cheng Kai, chairman of the China Disabled Persons' Federation, who will head the delegation, said at the mobilization conference that Liu's important insights and suggestions based on his involvement in the Paris Games were worth noting and provided valuable education and guidance for Paralympians.
Urging Paralympic athletes and coaches to learn from the example of the Chinese Olympic delegation, he said: "Let's strive to bring glory to our country and achieve outstanding athletic results with integrity."
He also expressed his wish that China can continue its dominance at the Games.
China debuted at the Paralympics in 1984 in New York. At the 2004 Athens Paralympics, China topped both the gold and overall medal count for the first time. In 2021 in Tokyo, Team China continued its success, winning 207 medals, including 96 golds, securing first place in both gold and overall standings for the fifth time in a row.
BEIJING -- The Chinese Paralympic delegation will leave for Paris on Wednesday in two batches, which was announced at a motivational conference held in Beijing on Tuesday, with all delegation members' taking part.
At the conference, Cheng Kai, leader of the Chinese Paralympics delegation, also the president of China's Disabled Persons Federation, stressed that the delegation members are supposed to be self-disciplined, to have the will to fight and the faith to win, and are expected to make all-out efforts to finish their tasks and to create new glorious moments in Paris.
Cheng also encouraged the athletes to be free from arrogance and rashness, to make persistent efforts to exceed themselves, and to show the world how brave the Chinese delegation is. He warned them to make sure the gold medals they win are ethical, high-minded and clean, and advised them to take the chance to make more friends worldwide.
The Paris 2024 Paralympics, to be held between August 28 and September 8, will be the 11th Summer Paralympics that China participates in.
Established on Aug 16 in Beijing, the Chinese Paralympics delegation consists of 516 people. Among them, 284 are athletes, including 126 males and 158 females, with an average age of 25.8.
Highlighting the importance of anti-doping program, a senior sports official on Tuesday called for continuous anti-doping efforts for the Chinese Paralympic delegation to the Paris Paralympic Games.
Liu Guoyong, a deputy director of the General Administration of Sport of China, said on Tuesday that anti-doping is crucial for the physical and mental well-being of the disabled athletes, the development of para-sports and the national image.
Speaking at a mobilization conference for the Paralympians attending the Paris Games set for Aug 28 to Sept 8, he urged to strengthen the management of food, drugs and nutritional supplements to prevent incidents of accidental doping, ensuring a zero-tolerance policy and a commitment to a doping-free environment.
Liu also said there will be unique challenges including disruptions and interferences from Western powers at the upcoming Paris Games, and athletes may have to deal with problems more than just on-field performance and technical preparations.
He encouraged athletes to concentrate on excelling in their competitions, emphasizing the importance of performing to the best of their abilities to earn respect.
The Olympic excitement may have cooled down with summer's end, but for Paralympians, the Games are just heating up. China's 516-member Paralympic delegation was officially formed in Beijing on Friday, and all set to compete in Paris with pride and integrity.
The Paris Paralympic Games, set for Aug 28 to Sept 8, will mark the French capital hosting the event for the first time.
This year's Games will feature 22 sports and 549 events, 10 more than the Tokyo Paralympics.
Over 4,400 athletes from more than 160 countries and regions are expected to compete in the event. Featuring a blend of youth and experience, China's delegation will take part in 19 sports and 302 events including archery, athletics, badminton, wheelchair basketball, fencing and tennis.
China's delegation for the upcoming Paris Paralympics, marking its 11th appearance at the Summer Paralympic Games, includes 126 male and 158 female athletes, supported by 232 coaches and staff.
The athletes have an average age of 25.8 years, with 48-year-old table tennis player Xiong Guiyan as the oldest competitor and 15-year-old swimmer Zhu Hui as the youngest. The team also includes 12 athletes from minority ethnic groups.
All athletes are amateurs, representing a variety of professions, ranging from workers and farmers to students, civil servants and freelancers. Of the participants, 189 athletes have previously competed in the Paralympics, while 95 are set to make their debut.
Cheng Kai, chairman of the China Disabled Persons' Federation, will head the delegation, which aims to push boundaries, pursue excellence and showcase both their spirit and sportsmanship.
Their mission also includes fostering international friendships, achieving success in both competition and cultural values, and deepening cultural exchange and cooperation with the host country.
China made its Paralympic debut in 1984 at the seventh edition of the Games in New York, sending a delegation of 24 athletes to compete in athletics, archery and table tennis. The team earned an impressive 24 medals including two golds.
In the years that followed, China's performance saw significant improvement. At the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, the nation dominated the Games, winning 89 golds, 70 silvers, and 52 bronzes — a total of 211 medals — topping both the gold and overall medal tables.
In 2021, at the 16th Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, Team China continued its winning streak, capturing 207 medals including 96 golds, and securing first place in both the gold medal count and overall standings for the fifth consecutive time.
As the 2024 Summer Olympics concluded, Paris joins London as the only two cities to host the Games three times. Beijing, renowned as the world's sole dual Olympic city, also boasts a rich Olympic legacy. What are the similarities and differences of these two Olympic cities? Click the video to find out the answer.
ISLAMABAD — Olympic javelin gold medalist Arshad Nadeem received a total of 250 million rupees ($897,000) on Tuesday as Pakistan continued to celebrate his record-breaking throw at the Paris Games.
Pakistan's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, announced 150 million rupees ($538,000) for Nadeem at a special ceremony to honor the star athlete in Islamabad. Sharif's announcement came hours after Punjab's chief minister Maryam Nawaz visited Nadeem's house, and presented him with a check for 100 million rupees.
Nawaz also handed him the keys to a new car, which has a special registration number of "PAK 92.97" to commemorate Nadeem's throw of 92.97 meters in Paris, which was an Olympic record. Nadeem's coach Salman Iqbal Butt was also given 5 million rupees.
"You have doubled the delight of 250 million Pakistanis because we'll also celebrate our Independence Day tomorrow," Sharif said while announcing the money for Nadeem, whose father is a daily wage laborer. "Today every Pakistani is happy and the morale of the whole country is sky high."
"The feeling is very good," Nadeem said Tuesday. "I hope to stay fit and break the world record one day."
Last Thursday, Nadeem set off celebrations across Pakistan when his throw easily surpassed the previous Olympic mark of 90.57 set by Andreas Thorkildsen of Norway in 2008.
It was also well clear of India's Neeraj Chopra, the Tokyo champion, who reached a season-best 89.45 for silver.
"Arshad Nadeem has brought unprecedented happiness to the nation," Nawaz said in a statement.
Nadeem's Olympic gold is Pakistan's first since the men's field hockey team won 40 years ago at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.
Pakistan's last medal of any color was a field hockey bronze at the 1992 Barcelona Games.
Later Tuesday, Nadeem and his family were flown to Islamabad on a special flight from Multan to attend a reception hosted by Sharif, who paid tribute to the athlete during a cabinet meeting.
"Nadeem has elevated the name of Pakistan worldwide because of his days and nights of hard work, parents' prayers and coach's training," Sharif said.
Pakistan is predominantly known for cricket in the sporting world, with the country winning the 1992 World Cup.
"Seeing him on the podium waving the flag and ringing the Olympic bell was incredible," Pakistan cricket captain Shan Masood said on Tuesday, as he prepares for a Test series against Bangladesh, starting Aug 21 in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie said Nadeem will be invited to the dressing room of the Pakistan cricket team during the first Test match.
"Having him visit and share his gold medal with the team would be a fantastic boost, especially with the Olympic spirit still in the air," Gillespie said. "It was a wonderful moment."
A special postage stamp has also been issued in Nadeem's honor depicting his record throw.
Agencies via Xinhua
SEOUL - South Korea's sports ministry said Tuesday it would investigate allegations by new Olympic badminton champion An Se-young that she was neglected by her national federation while injured.
World number one An swept to gold on Monday in Paris with a 21-13, 21-16 victory over China's He Bingjiao.
Shortly after, the 22-year-old An shocked fans at home in South Korea by telling reporters: "I think it may be difficult to continue with the national team after this moment."
An accused the Korea Badminton Association of not providing adequate support while she was suffering from a knee injury sustained last year.
An said she had to compete in pain because of the injury and had even been initially misdiagnosed regarding its severity.
"I was so disappointed with (the association) during my injury. I really can't get over those moments," An told reporters, without getting into further details.
She accused the association of "neglecting" its responsibilities.
The sports ministry issued a statement Tuesday saying it planned to "ascertain the exact facts as soon as the Olympics conclude" and "review the need for appropriate improvement measures based on the findings".
The ministry "plans to examine whether there are areas for improvement in athlete management across other sports as well," it added.
In a separate interview with South Korea's Yonhap News Agency published early Tuesday, An was quoted as saying the association had decided she would not be competing in certain events without providing her with any explanation.
She further accused the current training system of being outdated and not entirely safe for athletes, claiming it fails to "train in a way that prevents injuries or take proper measures if an injury occurs".
An said the country's doubles players - who have enjoyed more success in international competitions - were prioritised for training and medical support over singles players.
"I found my motivation in my anger as I set my goals and pursued my dreams," the new Olympic champion told Yonhap.
"I wanted to make my voice heard. In a way, my dream was (to have) a 'voice.'"
AFP
They have given us drama, golds and inspiration from their legendary Olympic performances. Now they are likely exiting the stage for good, leaving behind only golden memories.
Here are a few sporting stars who enjoyed their Olympic curtain call in Paris.
Andy Murray
Befitting a career punctuated by heroic comebacks, British tennis legend Andy Murray refused to go quietly into retirement.
Having already announced that Paris would be the last time fans saw him on the court, he was on the verge of a first round doubles exit against Japan, who had five match points.
Murray and partner Dan Evans saved every one and went on to win a thrilling tie-break, cheered on by a delirious Roland Garros crowd who could scarcely believe what they were seeing.
Another Houdini act followed in the second round before, Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul of the United States brought an end to the career of Murray, who at the age of 37 was beset with injury.
"I am genuinely happy with how it finished," said Murray, who famously ended Britain's 77-year wait for a Wimbledon winner, one of three Grand Slams and two Olympic golds.
The Scot, known for his dry sense of humor, signed off in style, writing on X after leaving the court: "Never even liked tennis anyway."
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
Also 37, the Jamaican sprinter had already announced that Paris would be a "last hurrah", saying that she wanted to "make different memories" after winning eight Olympic medals, three of them gold.
Fraser-Pryce won back-to-back 100m Olympic titles in Beijing 2008 and London 2012, and captured a 4x100m relay gold in Tokyo for good measure.
But, her Paris experience was a letdown. After coming through her 100m heat in 10.92, she was a no-show for the semifinal, reportedly injured in the warm-up.
"It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment," she said on her Instagram account.
"The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me throughout my career," she added.
Adam Peaty
Two-time breaststroke gold medalist Peaty has been as good as a guaranteed gold for Britain since bursting onto the scene in 2014.
After gold in Rio and Tokyo, hopes were high that the world record holder would add to his impressive haul in Paris.
But, an electric 100m breaststroke final saw him missing out by an agonizing two hundredths of a second to champion Nicolo Martinenghi and sharing silver.
Peaty, who has struggled with his mental health in recent years and battled depression, wept after the race as he hugged his three-year-old son, but insisted they were "happy tears".
It later emerged that he tested positive for COVID-19 the day after competing.
But, he bounced back in time to feature in the 4x100m medley relay, just missing out on a podium place as Britain finished fourth.
Simone Biles
Have we seen the last of the US superstar, widely viewed as the greatest gymnast of all time?
The Paris Games were billed as the "redemption tour", after Biles famously suffered from the debilitating "twisties" in Tokyo and crashed out.
She did not disappoint, taking gold in the all-around, team and vault with a spectacular version of her signature Yurchenko double pike, now known as the Biles II.
Now 27, she appeared fatigued on her last day of competition, stumbled off the balance beam and winning "only" silver in the floor competition behind Brazil's Rebeca Andrade.
In what could be interpreted as a changing of the guard, Biles bowed deeply to Andrade during the medal ceremony.
"I've accomplished way more than my wildest dreams, not just at this Olympics, but in the sport," said Biles, who owns a jaw-dropping 41 world and Olympic medals — 30 of them gold.
Asked what she would do next, she replied: "I'm going to relax, and then more relaxing!"
But, could the draw of a home Olympics in 2028 prove too tempting for Biles, who would be 31? "Never say never," she said.
LeBron James
The NBA's all-time leading points scorer secured his third Olympic gold medal with the US in a hard-fought 98-87 win against France.
He lives and plays in Los Angeles for the Lakers, but he'll be 43 by the time the Olympics rolls into California.
"I can't see myself playing in LA.Although I also didn't see myself playing in Paris. But four years from now, I can't see it," James said.
AFP
So, now that Tom Cruise has closed the show in spectacular style, carrying the Olympic flag off to Los Angeles on the back of his motorbike, and the curtain falls on another spectacular Summer Games, it's time to take a moment to reflect on the past two weeks, before the hard work of another Olympic cycle begins.
And what a fortnight it has been! Loaded with thrilling sporting action, feats of strength, skill and perseverance, and, of course, a bucketload of medals for Team China.
But, aside from the fierce competition, there were remarkable acts of sportsmanship, kindness and friendship, proving, again, that sports can conquer political, ideological and cultural divides like very little else.
Among the heartwarming highlights, the world heaped praise on He Bingjiao, who took silver in the women's singles badminton at the expense of Spain's Carolina Marin, who retired injured from their semifinal. In a show of empathy that won the hearts of millions, He carried a pin of the Spanish flag onto the podium with her in tribute to her fallen opponent, saying that she hoped to bring the spirit of Marin to the final. Lauded in the Spanish media, the country's NOC personally thanked He in Mandarin on social media.
Another wonderful — and literal — snapshot of the Games was that of China's mixed doubles table tennis gold medalist Sun Yingsha directing an impromptu podium photo shoot with teammate Wang Chuqin and the silver medalists from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Ri Jong-sik and Kim Kumyong, and the bronze medalists from the Republic of Korea, Shin Yu-bin and Lim Jong-hoon. The resulting pictures became a viral sensation, proving that, among athletes, there are no borders, only the crucible of competition.
Perhaps one of the most high-profile moments, though, came poolside at La Defense Arena. After breaking the United States' six0decade stranglehold on the 4x100m medley relay, and following a bitter, media-fueled spat between their respective anti-doping agencies, the American team rushing to congratulate the Chinese quartet of Xu Jiayu, Qin Haiyang Sun Jiajun and Pan Zhanle, and then emphasizing China's dominance in the podium photos that followed, went a long way to bridging the rift. Pan burying the hatchet with Australian swimmer Kyle Chalmers after an earlier misunderstanding between the pair, and swapping swim caps and contact details, will stand as an example of the magnanimity that is forged by intense sporting competition, and is perhaps something we can all learn from. After all, we're only human, even if there are those that are, arguably, more superhuman.
mccarthy@chinadaily.com.cn
Sun Yingsha, China's 23-year-old table tennis player who won two gold medals and one silver at the Paris Games, was again in the global limelight when she, as the representative of Asia, ceremoniously extinguished the Olympic flame on Sunday night, along with athletes from other continents, the International Olympic Committee Refugee Olympic Team, and host nation France, as well as IOC President Thomas Bach.
Thanks to her vigor, self-confidence and lovely smiles on and off the court, Sun, who won gold medals in the mixed doubles and women's team event, as well as a silver in the women's singles, has become one of the representatives of China's rising generation of athletes at the Games.
On the international stage, these athletes exemplified the spirit of contemporary Chinese sports — open-minded, confident, composed and graceful. Their conduct reflected a deep respect for both teammates and opponents, embodying the Olympic motto of "Faster, Higher, Stronger — Together".
Off the field, Chinese fans and online communities have moved beyond the fixation on gold medals, offering enthusiastic applause and cheers for every athlete's effort. They celebrated victories, consoled those who fell short, and recognized the dedication of all Olympians.
Chinese athletes' sincere off-field performances have caught the attention of the international media. Agence France-Presse highlighted a touching moment from the mixed doubles table tennis award ceremony — players from China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea took a podium selfie. ROK broadcasters repeatedly aired the footage, noting the significance of this rare show of unity.
At the women's singles badminton medal ceremony, Chinese silver medalist He Bingjiao held a Spanish team pin on the podium, honoring Carolina Marin, who withdrew from the semifinals due to a knee injury. The Olympic Instagram account, with 13 million followers, praised the gesture: "That's what Olympic values are all about!"
On Aug 9, three-time Olympian Shi Zhiyong missed the podium after an injury in the men's 73kg weightlifting event. After the Chinese weightlifting team concluded its Paris campaign with five gold medals, all the gold medalists hung their medals around Shi's neck for a post-competition photo.
Shi expressed his thanks on social media platform Weibo, saying: "I'm proud to be part of such a supportive team. Thank you all. I might have the most gold medals this time."
Weibo users also offered him encouragement. One comment said, "We're no longer just about gold medals. Simply competing for the country is impressive."
During the Paris Games, one touching moment was Zhang Boheng's reaction in the men's all-around gymnastics final, where he narrowly missed gold by 0.233 points. Upon seeing the results, Zhang smiled briefly, sighed deeply and lowered his gaze, showing complex emotions.
The 24-year-old gymnastics captain competed in six events over 10 days, completing 21 routines and finishing with two silver medals and one bronze. Despite not reaching the top podium, Zhang's efforts were widely recognized.
Similarly, the Chinese women's hockey team, which won silver, and the women's rugby sevens team, which finished sixth, achieved historic milestones and received wide acclaim for their performances.
"Today's Chinese audiences value the process over just the results," said sports commentator Yang Yi. "Viewers still want to see wins, but they no longer focus solely on gold medals or judge athletes by their success or failure. There's a deeper appreciation for the challenges athletes face and the essence of sports."
Room for improvement
In the final days of the Olympics, all eyes were on whether China could surpass the United States in the gold medal tally. The suspense ended when the US won the last gold in women's basketball, leaving both nations tied with 40.
The US stood out with its strong performance in the three major ball team events — soccer, basketball and volleyball — securing gold in men's and women's basketball and women's soccer, and also winning silver in women's volleyball and bronze in men's volleyball.
In contrast, China's team sports performances were underwhelming. The women's volleyball team finished fifth and the women's basketball team ninth, while four other teams didn't even qualify for Paris.
Zhou Jinqiang, deputy head of the Chinese delegation, said at a news conference on Sunday that the performance in major ball team sports was disappointing and some events face a gap in emerging talent. He emphasized that they will promptly conduct a thorough analysis and focus on continuous improvement.
As the Olympic flag was passed to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games, preparations for the next Olympics have already begun. Team China will need to intensify its efforts and maintain a strategic focus to enhance its team sports performance.
Chinese young generation of athletes made a splash in Paris as they carried the nation's Olympics glory.
