On top of their game

1. Shi Yuqi (male, badminton)

Shi claimed the men's singles crown at the 2025 BWF World Championships, ending a decade-long title drought for China in the event. He also became the first Chinese player in the BWF World Tour era to sweep the four Super 1000 events. Shi helped China secure a fourth consecutive Sudirman Cup, and led Jiangsu to its sixth National Games men's team title. The 29-year-old was awarded the BWF Men's Singles Player of the Year.

2. Gong Lijiao (female, athletics)

The 36-year-old Gong overcame lingering injuries to win the women's shot put title in her National Games farewell, achieving an unprecedented fifth consecutive National Games crown in the event. Over a 25-year period, Gong has completed a career Grand Slam, winning titles at the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships and National Games.