Japan's Hojo secures first gold at Asian Games as Yu shines in swimming heats
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 3:33 AM
Last updated Sep 20, 2026
Japan's Takumi Hojo won the first gold medal of the 20th Asian Games, securing victory in the men's individual triathlon on September 20 in Gamagori city. China's 13-year-old swimmer Yu Zidi dominated the women's 200m butterfly heats, finishing 2.70 seconds ahead of her closest competitor. The Asian Games feature over 40 sports and 469 gold medals, running until October 4. Amid logistical challenges, the event was officially opened by Japan's Emperor Naruhito, although attendance was sparse.
- •Hojo finished the triathlon in 52 minutes, 56 seconds, nine seconds ahead of Zhang Xirui.
- •Yu Zidi led the women's 200m butterfly heats, setting herself up as a favorite for the final.
- •The Games are taking place in Nagoya, featuring 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials.
- •Logistical issues have arisen, including athletes stranded at the airport and housing complaints.
- •The event concludes on October 4, with 469 gold medals up for grabs.
- 3:33 AMYahoo Sports — First Asian Games gold goes to Japan as China's 13-year-old Yu lights up pool
"The first gold medal of the 20th Asian Games was won on Sunday by host nation Japan as a 13-year-old swimmer from China started in blistering form on the opening day of the multisports extravaganza.Even the rain held off, and I was in top form right up until I stood on the starting line," added Hojo, who also won the Asian Games test triathlon a year ago on the same course.
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