Chen Ziyan, Xie Guying, and Zhong Qi combined for 106.864 points on Sunday to edge Japan by 0.500 points, sending China to the top of the women’s artistic gymnastics qualification at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, english.news.cn reported.
- Gymnastics Futures: China’s narrow 0.500-point margin over Japan signals an exceptionally tight battle for the team final gold medal on Monday.
- All-Around Watch: Xie Guying and Zhong Qi head into Tuesday’s all-around final separated by just 0.167 points.
- Depth & Qualification: Italy, France, Canada, Australia, Egypt, and Romania secured the remaining places in the team final.
Xie led the individual all-around standings with 53.099 points, while Zhong followed closely in second with 52.932 points. Both athletes secured their places in Tuesday’s all-around final. Teammate Chen Ziyan contributed to the team total by ranking sixth overall with 51.665 points.
The trio arrived in Dakar carrying strong credentials from earlier in the season. They previously captured the team title for host China at the Asian Junior Championships in Zunyi in June, according to english.news.cn.
Despite finishing first in qualification, all three gymnasts were dissatisfied with their performances, according to their coach. Zhang Xia, head coach of China’s junior women’s gymnastics team, stated that she would not allow the disappointment to linger.
"There is no need to let frustration affect their mood," Zhang said. "We will help them get out of this frame of mind."
"We’re confident going into the final," Xie said. "As long as we perform at our normal level, I’m sure we can get a good result."
Italy stood third with 101.830 points, followed by France with 101.330 points. Canada, Australia, Egypt, and Romania secured the remaining places in the team final.
The competition shifts to Monday for the team final, followed by the individual all-around final on Tuesday.
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