Chinese athletes reaffirmed their global shooting supremacy at the ISSF World Cup in Granada, Spain, with Sheng Lihao and Xiao Jiaruixuan securing gold medals in their respective events yesterday. The victories underscore China's continued dominance in precision sports ahead of major international competitions.
Air Rifle Precision Rewards Olympic Champion
Sheng Lihao, the reigning Olympic gold medalist, opened the men's 10-meter air rifle final with two near-perfect 10.8 shots. The 20-year-old ultimately triumphed with 253.9 points – 0.9 points clear of Serbia's Aleksa Rakonjac. This marks Sheng's 10th World Cup gold and 15th career medal in the series.
Youth vs Experience in Pistol Showdown
The women's 25-meter pistol final saw 18-year-old Kong Jieru challenge compatriot Xiao Jiaruixuan in a dramatic duel. After tying at 39 hits, the pair engaged in two shootoffs before Xiao, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, claimed her first World Cup title 4-3. France's Camille Jedrzejewski completed the podium with bronze.
These results come as China strengthens its shooting program, with athletes currently preparing for the 2026 Asian Games and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
