China is a nation deeply passionate about sports, with a wide variety of popular sports enjoyed by millions. From traditional disciplines to modern, emerging activities, the sports culture in China is both rich and dynamic. Here are some of the most popular sports in China. In part 1 of our article, we focus on traditional and popular sports. ![]() Basketball (篮球, Lán qiú) Basketball is the most beloved sport in China, with a massive following. The NBA is extremely popular, and many Chinese fans eagerly follow the league’s games and players. The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) is also a highly competitive professional league, featuring top domestic talent. The sport’s popularity extends to grassroots levels, with numerous community leagues and school teams across the country. Football (足球, Zú qiú) Football is another major sport in China, with a large number of fans who support both domestic and international competitions. The Chinese Super League (CSL) is the top professional football league in China, attracting significant attention and investment. Despite the national team’s struggles on the global stage, football remains a popular pastime and a widely discussed topic among sports enthusiasts. Table Tennis (乒乓球, Pīng pāng qiú) Table tennis, often referred to as China’s “national ball,” is a sport where China has consistently dominated international competitions. The Chinese national table tennis team has produced numerous world champions and Olympic gold medalists. The sport is widely played at both amateur and professional levels, with many Chinese people enjoying it in parks, community centers, and schools. Badminton (羽毛球, Yǔ máo qiú) Badminton is another popular racket sport in China, with a strong presence in international competitions. The Chinese badminton team has won numerous Olympic and World Championship titles. The sport is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a common sight in parks and sports clubs across the country. Swimming (游泳, Yóu yǒng) Swimming is a popular fitness activity and a competitive sport in China. With many Chinese swimmers achieving success at the Olympic Games and World Championships, the sport has gained significant popularity. Public swimming pools and fitness centers are widely available, making swimming accessible to a large portion of the population. Martial Arts (武术, Wǔ shù) Martial arts have a long history in China and are deeply rooted in the country’s culture. Traditional martial arts styles such as kung fu and tai chi are practiced for both self-defense and health benefits. Modern competitive martial arts events, including the World Wushu Championships, showcase the skills and techniques of martial artists from around the world. |