13-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi wins Asian Games gold

(ECNS) -- Thirteen-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi won the women's 200-meter butterfly at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Sunday, setting a new record in her Asian Games debut.

Yu finished in 2 minutes, 5.08 seconds to claim the gold medal, becoming the first Chinese swimmer to win a title at this year's Games.

Speaking after the race, Yu said she still had room to improve, particularly in her technique.

"I hope I can swim faster. I believe I'll do better next time," she said.

China's 13-year-old swimmer Yu Zidi competes in the women's 200m butterfly final at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, Sept. 20, 2026. (Photo: China News Service/Cui Nan)

(By Evelyn)