HANGZHOU, China-  China's dominant performance at the recently concluded Asian Games in Hangzhou showcased their prowess, securing the top spot in the medal count.

The event, featuring an impressive 12,500 competitors, surpassed the expected participation for next year's Summer Olympics in Paris, which anticipates around 10,500 athletes.

This grand sporting spectacle encompassed traditional Olympic disciplines and provided a glimpse into two future Olympic inclusions.

Breakdancing, known as "breaking," will be part of the Paris 2024 Olympics, while cricket awaits its Olympic debut, either in the 2028 Los Angeles Games or the 2032 Brisbane Games.

Moreover, the Asian Games introduced unique competitions rarely seen in multi-sport events, including dragon boat racing, kabaddi, sepaktakraw (foot volleyball), 3x3 basketball, and roller skating.

China invested a staggering $30 billion in preparing Hangzhou to host the games, highlighting its economic might and aiming to impress both neighboring nations and the local populace. The event was postponed from 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, giving organizers an extra year to ensure its success.

While China, Japan, and South Korea continued to dominate, the Asian Games provided smaller nations and territories, with 45 participating, a platform to contend for medals—an opportunity that can be elusive in the larger Olympic arena.