Teen swimmer makes Games history as Thai, Chinese sprinters win gold

Chinese swimmer Zhang Zhanshuo made history by becoming the first athlete to win seven gold medals at a single Asian Games during the 2026 Asian Games in Tokyo. The 19-year-old set a Games-record time of 3 minutes 41.28 seconds in the men's 400m freestyle swimming event. In addition to his seven golds, Zhang also secured titles in the 200m, 800m and 1,500m freestyle events, as well as three relays.

China dominated the swimming events throughout the Games, winning 30 out of the 42 golds in the pool. Meanwhile, Thai and Chinese sprinters claimed victory in the men's and women's 100m races, setting record times. Chinese teenager Chen Yujie won the women's 100m in a Games-record 11.06 seconds, turning 18 in December. Japan's 17-year-old swimmer Shin Ohashi shattered the men's 200m breaststroke world record, while 20-year-old Thailand's Puripol Boonson won the men's 100m, breaking his Games record.

The 20th Asian Games in Japan's Nagoya saw South Korea edge China 85-80 in the women's basketball semi-finals, advancing to a gold medal match against hosts Japan. North Korea's women also showcased their prowess in weightlifting, setting three world records and winning four gold medals and two silvers.