Blood, sweat and cheers

Badminton is a relative newcomer to the Paralympic stage, having made its debut just three years ago at the Tokyo Games. This year, at the Paris Paralympics, the sport has expanded to 16 events. Yet, China's para badminton team has long been prepared for the challenge.

At just 15, Yang Qiuxia declared her ambition to top the Olympic podium and see China's flag raised high.

Now 26, she has delivered on that promise in both Tokyo and Paris. Meanwhile, Qu Zimo, who has spent a decade honing his badminton skills, has collected four gold medals over two Paralympics. At just 22, he remains at the height of his career.

In Paris, the Chinese team not only defended all five of its gold medals from Tokyo, but also asserted its dominance in the discipline, winning nine golds, two silvers, and a bronze across 14 events.

The athletes' remarkable success is built on scientific training, the close, family-like care of their coaches, and years of collaboration that have fostered deep bonds throughout the team. In the end, it wasn't just strategy that secured their victories — it was teamwork and a shared sense of purpose.

Dong Jiong, the team's head coach said that the whole team's preparation for the Paris Games over the past three years involved intense effort. "Our players have surpassed their own limits in Paris, showcasing extraordinary strength and willpower. Every swing of the racket and every drop of sweat has fueled our team's ongoing motivation," he said.