Chinese para-athlete Long Dengxi, 18, became the breakout star of the 2025 Chengdu World Games this week, clinching two gold medals in freediving events that left fans and competitors in awe. 🏊♂️💥
From Rookie to Champion 🌟
After securing his first gold in Sunday's dynamic without fins event, Long dominated Monday's dynamic with fins category by swimming 181.5 meters – a jaw-dropping feat for someone who's trained less than a year! 🚀 "My future goal? To keep pursuing this sport and shatter my personal best," said the teen sensation, thanking his coaches for their support.
Record-Breaking Waves 🌊
Hungary's Zsofia Torocsik stole the spotlight by smashing the women's dynamic with fins world record, adding 16 meters to reach 300 meters total! 🎯 The emotional champion told reporters: "I try to do my best every single time… that's the key."
Meanwhile, Poland's Mateusz Jan Malina proved age is just a number at 39, winning two golds despite "squeezing like a lemon" through tight muscles. 🍋💪
Medal Count Highlights 🥇
🇨🇳 China leads with 4 golds
🇵🇱 Poland follows with 3 golds
🇮🇹 Italy takes third place
The inclusive event, featuring athletes with and without impairments, showcased how determination trumps all barriers. As Long's story proves – sometimes the newest divers make the biggest splash! 🌈✨
