Nagoya, Japan – The Asian Games swimming program delivered a memorable moment on Tuesday when Japan’s 17‑year‑old prodigy Yumeki Kojima claimed gold in the men’s 400‑metre individual medley. Competing at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, Kojima touched the wall in 4:07.02, establishing a new Games record and surpassing the previous mark set by former Olympic champion Kosuke Hagino.
Kojima’s breakthrough performance
Speaking after the race, Kojima said, “Leon Marchand is the athlete I’m aiming for the most. I want to close the gap on him little by little and, one day, be able to beat him.” The French world‑record holder was present at the venue, offering a swimming clinic for local children, and Kojima’s ambition underscores Japan’s commitment to developing the next generation of world‑class swimmers.
Chinese swimmers continue to dominate
China’s 13‑year‑old sensation Yu Zidi captured two individual gold medals earlier in the competition, reinforcing the nation’s stronghold on the pool. In the women’s 200‑metre backstroke, Peng Xuwei added another title with an Asian record of 2:05.77, eclipsing the previous record of 2:06.46 set by teammate Zhao Jing.
Shooting records set by Chinese marksmen
In the shooting arena, China’s Sheng Lihao and Wang Zifei delivered a world‑record performance in the 10‑metre air‑rifle mixed team event, scoring 507.1 points. Sheng, a double gold medallist from the Hangzhou Games, also secured his third gold in Nagoya after winning the individual and men’s team titles in the 10‑metre air rifle earlier in the meet.
Afghan cyclist’s inspiring silver
Afghanistan celebrated a historic achievement as Fariba Hashimi earned a silver medal in the women’s road race, finishing behind China’s Guo Li. Hashimi, who now resides in Italy, recalled the hardships she faced training in a country where women were forced to conceal their identities and later flee the Taliban. “I hope the next generation will come here and represent their country without any fear,” she said.
India’s cricket triumph and near‑miss
India’s women’s cricket team secured a decisive 147‑run victory over Sri Lanka to claim the T20 title, highlighted by a 79‑run innings from veteran opener Smriti Mandhana. Pakistan captured bronze by defeating Bangladesh. On the men’s side, India narrowly avoided an upset against Japan in a rain‑shortened match, losing by two runs in a five‑over showdown.
Logistics challenges and diplomatic notes
Beyond the competition, organizers faced criticism over accommodation and logistical shortfalls, with South Korea’s team chef de mission attributing the issues to cost‑cutting measures. An official from the Aichi‑Nagoya organising committee issued an apology. Additionally, a South Korean media report suggested that two members of North Korea’s 180‑strong delegation were seeking asylum, though Reuters could not verify the claim.
Looking ahead
China’s teenage phenom Yu Zidi is slated to return on day four to chase a third individual title in the 400‑metre medley, while Japan prepares for a gymnastics showdown with China for both men’s and women’s team golds.
The Asian Games continue to showcase emerging talent and fierce competition across the continent, offering a glimpse of the athletes who may shape the future of international sport.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
