Why it matters:
This podium finish signals a major resurgence for Iranian wushu, reestablishing the country as a top global contender in martial sports and the success of its athletes on the world stage.
The big picture:
The World Wushu Championships are the sport's premier event, dominated by China. Iran's ability to secure the vice-champion title ahead of traditional powerhouses like Malaysia and Hong Kong demonstrates a significant shift in the global wushu hierarchy and the depth of its talent pool across both men's and women's divisions.
Key points:
- Medal haul: The team won a total of 10 medals: 6 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze across the Sanda (sparring) and Taolu (forms) disciplines.
- Overall rank: Iran finished as the overall vice-champion, with China in first place.
- The comeback: This is Iran's first team medal in the championships in six years.
- Gold medalists: Zahra Kiani, Sedigheh Deryaei, Soheila Mansourian, Shahrbano Mansourian, Erfan Moharrami, and Mehdi Moradi all won world titles.
Go deeper:
Zahra Kiani Wins Iran’s First-Ever Gold in World Wushu Championships
M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi