**China Extends Unbeaten Streak at Asian Games Amid Organisational Challenges**
*Tokyo, Japan – September 30, 2026*
China's diving team has once again demonstrated its dominance at the Asian Games, extending an unbeaten record that dates back to 1974. This achievement comes as the host nation, Japan, grapples with a series of organisational issues that have prompted an official apology from local authorities.
During the latest diving events held at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, Chinese divers Chen Yiwen and Lian Junjie secured gold medals in the women's 3-metre springboard final, contributing to China's impressive total of 150 gold medals with four days remaining in the competition. Japan, the host country, trails significantly with 50 golds, while South Korea holds 24.
Chen, a double champion from the Paris Olympics, emphasized the capabilities of female athletes in her sport. “Girls are every bit as capable as boys. We are pushing ourselves to perform more difficult dives, too,” she stated, highlighting the rigorous training that both male and female divers undergo.
In addition to the diving success, the Asian Games have seen other notable performances. Filipino tennis player Alexandra Eala advanced to the semifinals of the women's singles, defeating Taiwan’s Joanna Garland with a score of 7-5, 6-0. Eala, currently ranked 18th in the world, expressed her pride in representing her country and her aspirations for future competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
In boxing, Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting, the reigning Olympic champion, secured her place in the finals of the women's 60kg class after a decisive 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan's Sitora Turdibekova. Lin is now just one win away from claiming her second gold medal at the Asian Games.
On the football field, South Korea edged past China with a late 2-1 victory in the men's semifinals. The South Korean team will face Japan in the final after the hosts triumphed over Uzbekistan in a dramatic penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
However, the games have not been without their challenges. Nagoya’s mayor, Ichiro Hirosawa, issued a public apology to athletes for various inconveniences experienced during the event. Complaints have surfaced regarding accommodation shortages and transportation issues, with some athletes reporting difficulties in accessing necessary facilities.
The current edition of the Asian Games has seen a record participation of over 17,000 athletes and officials, surpassing even the Olympic Games. This surge in numbers has led to logistical strains, exacerbated by the absence of a traditional athletes’ village. Participants are currently housed in temporary wooden units, on a cruise ship, and in hotels, a cost-saving measure that has drawn criticism.
“We must offer our apologies to the athletes and others affected by these inconveniences,” Hirosawa stated, acknowledging the mismanagement that has marred the event. He emphasized the need for reflection on the handling of the games, which have been overshadowed by organisational shortcomings.
As the Asian Games continue, the focus remains on the athletic performances that have captivated audiences, juxtaposed with the challenges faced by the host nation. With several events still to unfold, the spotlight will be on both the athletes striving for glory and the local organisers working to address the ongoing issues.