China won the women’s team title at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam on Wednesday, October 21, defeating the United States by 0.233 points.

The final totals were 165.764 for China, 165.531 for the U.S. and 164.063 for bronze medallist Japan. Canada placed eighth with 158.096, according to International Gymnast’s final standings.

A narrow finish ends the American streak

The result ended seven consecutive U.S. world team titles dating to 2011. China last won the title in 2006.

The Americans led after vault and uneven bars, but China moved ahead on balance beam. Zhang Qingying scored 15.066 on that apparatus, while a fall on Dulcy Caylor’s dismount cost the U.S. ground.

China entered the last rotation 2.200 points ahead. The Americans closed the gap on floor exercise, but Qiu Qiyuan’s final routine kept China in first place.

Olympic places for the medallists

China, the United States and Japan secured team berths for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Wednesday’s final was part of the October 17–25 championships at Rotterdam Ahoy.

Sources: International Gymnast final report and standings; Reuters; World Gymnastics event record.

Editorial illustration of gymnastics apparatus and a medal.