China concluded the diving programme at the World Aquatics Championships – Singapore 2025 with two more gold medals on Sunday, reaffirming their status as the sport’s dominant force.

Zhu Yongxin and Xie Peiling pulled off a dramatic comeback in the mixed 10m synchronised platform final, rising from last place after the first dive to finish on top with 323.04 points. “We were encouraging each other as the competition went on. We were quite nervous,” said Zhu. “This wasn’t an easy gold to win. We got this by the skin of our teeth.”

The North Korean pair of Jo Jin Mi and Choe Wi Hyon narrowly missed out on the gold, finishing second with 322.98 points, while neutral athletes Aleksandr Bondar and Anna Konanykhina claimed bronze with 311.88. Singapore’s Yim Shek Yen and Ainslee Kwang closed the field in 12th place.

The Chinese pair, who have only trained together for less than two months, credited their coach for helping them find synergy. “Coach gave us some tips on how to work well with each other, find a rhythm that will help our partnership,” Zhu said. “A mixed event is a competition that involves two divers, not just yourself.”

Xie admitted nerves affected their early performance. “It was a bit of a blow to make a mistake. You’ll start to feel some fear,” she said. “But we keep telling ourselves not to think too much, and just take every dive as we would treat a normal dive.” She added, “If similar circumstances come up in future events, I now have a bit of experience and I know better how to handle it.”

China’s medal tally rose again with Zheng Jiuyuan’s victory in the men’s 1m springboard final, scoring 443.70 to edge out defending champion Osmar Olvera Ibarra of Mexico (429.60). Yan Siyu (CHN) secured bronze with 405.50. Singapore’s Avvir Tham and Max Lee placed 28th and 48th respectively.