In a stellar showcase at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, Chinese swimmers Zhang Yufei and Qin Haiyang have emerged as standout performers, clinching the women's and men's MVP awards, respectively.

Zhang Yufei, who previously dazzled with two golds and two silvers at Tokyo 2020, matched Ikee Rikako's impressive record by securing six golds, a feat once achieved at the 2018 Asian Games.

While she was on track for a potential seventh gold, a disqualification in the 4x100m medley relay heats on the concluding day kept that at bay. Nevertheless, Zhang's prowess was evident as she established new Asian Games benchmarks in four individual events and one relay.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Zhang shared, "It has been a milestone year for me. Hangzhou will leave a deep mark in my memory."

Breaststroke specialist Qin Haiyang made a significant impact on the men's side by breaking Games records in all his individual breaststroke events, culminating in five gold medals. Currently in Germany and fresh off a victory against Great Britain's Adam Peaty at the Swimming World Cup, Qin remarked, "It was not in my plans to win the award. I came into this year just wanting to make breakthroughs. I want to achieve newer heights in Paris."

These noteworthy achievements at the Asian Games underscore the dedication and talent of athletes, setting the stage for more exhilarating performances in future events.