China's aquatic sports authorities revealed an ambitious lineup for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships on Friday, blending Olympic veterans with emerging talents as the nation prepares to defend its dominance in Singapore. The 34-member swimming squad features 2024 Paris Olympic champion Pan Zhanle, who told reporters: "This event holds special memories – I want to deliver my best in the 100m freestyle final."
Swimming: 31-year-old Wang Shun prepares for his eighth Worlds appearance, while Pan leads a new generation following his Doha 2024 world record and four gold medals. The team will compete across July 27-August 3 events.
Diving: Olympic champions Chen Yuxi and Wang Zongyuan headline the 14-member "Dream Team," though two-time gold medalist Quan Hongchan remains sidelined by injury. Rising stars Zhang Minjie and Chen Jia join veterans Cao Yuan in what officials call "a strategic mix of experience and youth."
Artistic Swimming: Fresh from historic Paris 2024 golds, the team introduces 19-year-old twins Lin Yanhan and Lin Yanjun alongside male swimmer Guo Muye. Their World Cup Super Final dominance in June suggests strong championship potential.
With open water and water polo teams completing the 82-athlete contingent, China aims to build on its 2024 Olympic success when competition begins July 11. Singapore's newly upgraded Sports Hub will host 13 diving and 11 artistic swimming events among 75 total competitions.
