Jiangyin, Apr 7 (UNI) The 10th International Wushu Federation (IWUF) Sanda World Cup began in Jiangyin, east China's Jiangsu Province on Monday.

Following the successful hosting of the 2024 International Wushu Invitational Tournament, Jiangyin has once again become a global martial arts hub.

Nearly 200 athletes, coaches, team officials, and technical delegates from 26 countries and regions are scheduled to compete over the next three days.

IWUF Vice President Wu Tinggui emphasized that the 10th Sanda World Cup has brought together the world's top athletes, symbolizing the perfect fusion of martial heritage and competitive spirit.

Team China has sent seven athletes, including three women and four men. Ye Xiang, a heavyweight fighter (over 90 kg), is participating in his third Sanda World Cup.

"Sanda is a symbol of Chinese strength and spirit; we must keep improving as the foreign athletes are catching up rapidly," Ye said.

Australia's first-ever Sanda world champion, Michael Woodward, will compete in the 85kg category on Wednesday.

"It was my second time competing in China, following my first participation in the 15th World Wushu Championships held in Shanghai in 2019, which marked my debut on the world Sanda stage. It was an incredible experience," Woodward said.

"I'm thrilled to be back in China. The venues here are amazing, like the Colosseum. My goal aligns with everyone else's here -- to fight for the gold medal," he added.

UNI/XINHUA BM