Taiwan’s rising weightlifting star, Hong Zi-yu (洪梓瑜), delivered a commanding performance at the 2025 Asian Weightlifting Championships, clinching three silver medals in the fiercely competitive women’s 45 kg category. Her total lift of 161 kg—a snatch of 73 kg and a clean & jerk of 88 kg—demonstrates not only technical skill but also the growing depth of Taiwan’s presence in international women’s weightlifting.
🏋️♀️ Hong Zi-yu’s Lifts: Strength Meets Precision
Although Hong faltered on her first snatch attempt at 70 kg, she quickly recalibrated and successfully lifted the same weight on her second try. She then managed to secure 73 kg on her final snatch attempt. In the clean and jerk, she nailed 85 kg and then 88 kg with relative ease, but fell short on her ambitious 98 kg attempt that would have broken Taiwan’s national record.
Her final total of 161 kg put her behind only China’s Zhao Jinhong (趙金紅), who broke the Asian and world records with a 90 kg snatch, 100 kg clean and jerk, and a monumental 190 kg total—a clean sweep of gold medals.
🇹🇼 The Bigger Picture: Taiwan’s Growing Power in Lifting
This performance is more than an individual achievement—it reflects Taiwan’s continued investment in strength sports, especially among women. Hong’s silver hat-trick signals the readiness of younger lifters to challenge powerhouses like China on the international stage. At just 21, Hong could very well be Taiwan’s centerpiece at the 2026 Asian Games or even the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
💪 Lin Cheng-jing Breaks Record, Fang Wan-ling Battles Injury
In the women’s 49 kg category, Lin Cheng-jing (林呈璟) broke her personal record with an 85 kg snatch, placing fourth in a tough group. Her final clean and jerk of 100 kg brought her total to 185 kg, narrowly missing the podium but demonstrating growth.
Meanwhile, veteran Fang Wan-ling (方莞靈), who previously represented Taiwan at the Paris Olympics, struggled due to lingering injuries. She totaled 170 kg and placed last among five competitors. Nevertheless, her participation indicates commitment to recovery and mentorship for the next generation.
🔍 Expert Insight: What This Means for Taiwan
Commentary:
This tournament underlines a shift in competitive dynamics across Asian weightlifting. Taiwan is no longer just a participant; it’s a contender. Hong’s technique, recovery under pressure, and near-record attempt highlight an athlete at the edge of a breakthrough.
Moreover, Zhao Jinhong’s world record throws down the gauntlet for all competitors globally. For Taiwan, the silver lining is literal—three medals and the motivation to build a stronger lifting infrastructure, from grassroots to elite level.
📅 What’s Next?
The 2025 Asian Weightlifting Championships run until May 15. Taiwan is expected to field athletes in additional categories, and eyes will now be on whether more records can fall and if more medals can return to Taipei.
🧠 FAQs
Who is Hong Zi-yu?
A 21-year-old Taiwanese weightlifter who won three silver medals in the women’s 45 kg category at the 2025 Asian Championships.
How did Hong perform in each round?
She lifted 73 kg in snatch and 88 kg in clean & jerk for a total of 161 kg.
Did she attempt a national record?
Yes, Hong attempted 98 kg in the clean & jerk to break Taiwan’s total lift record but did not succeed.
Who won gold in her category?
China’s Zhao Jinhong, who set new Asian and world records.
Why is this significant for Taiwan?
It showcases Taiwan’s growing competitive strength in Asian weightlifting, especially in lighter women’s categories.
