Why it matters:
Kiani’s historic gold medal marks a breakthrough for Iranian women in international martial arts. Her victory not only elevates Iran’s status in wushu but also inspires a new generation of female athletes in a sport long dominated by East Asian competitors.
The big picture:
On the fourth day of the 17th World Wushu Championships 2025, hosted in Brasília, Brazil, Kiani competed in the morning taolu session in the Qiangshu form. As the final performer among 27 athletes, she scored 9.763—securing first place and earning Iran its first-ever gold in the history of the sport.
By the numbers:
Zahra Kiani (Iran): 9.763
Indonesia: 9.756
Vietnam: 9.746
Go deeper:
The competition began Saturday morning, September 6, local time, with athletes from around the world vying for top honors. Kiani’s flawless execution and composure under pressure set a new benchmark for Iranian wushu on the global stage.
Hossein Amiri - Mojtaba Darabi
