The first adult competitive sports events of the 15th National Games were launched with the women's handball tournament opening in Shantou City on September 10th, as teams including Guangdong got off to a winning start.
The opening match of the women's handball competition took place at the Shantou Sports Centre. Eight teams competed on the first day, showcasing top-level skills and competitive spirit.
A vibrant opening ceremony featured performances of Yingge Dance and Double Dragon Dance (traditional dances unique to the Chaoshan region, which includes Shantou) to wish the athletes success throughout the tournament.
The women's handball event will run until September 19, featuring 10 teams from across China. A total of 33 matches will be played to decide the gold medalist.
The first match saw Group A contenders Shandong face Hong Kong. Shandong, silver medalists in the previous National Games and winners of six out of 21 national titles in the recent cycle, proved their strength with a 36–22 victory.
Hong Kong, competing in the final stage of the National Games for only the second time, is composed mainly of working individuals who train in their spare time.
Hong Kong Team
Despite the loss, the team displayed determination. Captain Li Wenya noted, "Teammates have already given their all. We learned a lot from playing a strong team like Shandong."
Shandong captain Tian Xiuxiu said, "We controlled the rhythm of the game. In the second half, we adapted to the court and executed fast attacks effectively. We are generally satisfied."
Shandong team VS Hong Kong team
The Shandong team boasts several national team players and has clear championship ambitions.
In another opening day thriller, Guangdong narrowly defeated Shanghai 25–24.
Head coach of the Guangdong team Li Yuling praised the team's relentless defense and attacking effort, stating, "Every player gave their all until the final second—they were exceptional."
Guangdong team
Guangdong team player Li Xiaoqing dedicated the win to their coaches, saying, "We've long awaited this victory. Today (Sept. 10) is Teachers' Day in China. Happy Teachers' Day to our coaches!"
Handball is a fast-paced, intense team sport that has been growing rapidly in China. Recent achievements include the men's national team finishing fifth at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and the U17 women's team making history by winning the 11th Asian Women's Youth Handball Championship earlier this year.
The 15th National Games, the largest and highest-level comprehensive sports event in China, will officially be held from November 9 to 21, 2025, across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao—marking the first time the Games are jointly hosted by the three regions.
Audience cheering up athletes in women's handball in Shantou
Shantou is one of the competition zones of the 15th National Games. Besides the women's handball competition, it will also host the surfing competition of the Games in November.
Reporter | Huang Xinyi
Photo | 15th National Games Organizing Committee
Editor | Hu Nan, James Campion, Shen He
