Chinese Freediver Yu Zhiying Sets New Asian Record at Freediving Cup

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Chinese freediver Yu Zhiying clinched a new Asian record in the free immersion (FIM) category with an impressive dive of 112 meters at the Asian Freediving Cup held on Monday near Panglao Island, Philippines. This achievement not only earned him the gold medal but also established him as the Asian champion, a title he garnered on the very first day of the men's competition.

Yu, who was born in 1992, embarked on his freediving journey in 2021 and has made significant strides in a short span of time. Reflecting on the mental aspects of the sport, he noted that freediving requires a unique approach where athletes must cultivate a state of deep relaxation to optimize their performance. By managing anxiety and lowering heart rates, competitors can enhance their oxygen conservation, which is vital for excelling in this challenging discipline. His earlier accomplishments include breaking the 100-meter milestone at the Asian Cup in June 2024 and recording the highest score in static apnea for freediving in China by March 2025.