On the final day of ju-jitsu action at the 2025 Chengdu World Games, China celebrated a landmark victory, securing its first-ever para ju-jitsu gold on home soil.
In the mixed duo para physical final, Li Yucai and Guo Ao edged Germany’s Alessandro Schober and Christine Jahn by a narrow 167-162 margin, creating history for the host nation.
"We trained together for just four months," said Li. "This medal validates our perseverance, and we’ll keep championing this spirit."
Meanwhile, Israel’s Nimrod Ryeder extended his dominance in men’s ne-waza, adding the open weight title to his 77kg crown. After a challenging semifinal where South Korea’s Joo Seong-hyeon retired injured in overtime, Ryeder overcame Canada’s Nathan Dos Santos 2-0 in the final.
"I always put on headphones before the match to concentrate and keep mentally stable," he explained. "Defending my 77kg title and winning the open proves I’m dominating this event."
Hungary’s Tamara Toros stunned the arena, defeating women’s 63kg champion Sung Ki-ra 2-0 in the semifinals before claiming the women’s open gold over Israel’s Meshi Rosenfeld by submission.
In the mixed duo para visual category, Germany’s Nike Hunecke and Julia Paszkiewicz narrowly topped China’s Wang Wenqiang and Pan Tianyou 149-143.
Italy’s Napoli brothers captured mixed duo para mental gold in a touching sibling showdown. Giovanni Napoli celebrated alongside his brother Pietro, who has Down syndrome.
"He’s not different, just a little special. Carrying him to gold is my proudest achievement," Giovanni shared.
As the ju-jitsu competition wrapped up in Chengdu, these performances underscored the power of resilience, unity, and passion in adaptive sports.
Reference(s):
China win first-ever para ju-jitsu gold at 2025 Chengdu World Games
cgtn.com
