A Spectacular Start: Wuxi Welcomes the Asian DanceSport Festival 2025
Wuxi, People’s Republic of China – 17 July 2025
Opening Day Competitions – Junior to Senior, Standard to Solo
The opening day brought a strong line-up of WDSF Open Standard events across Junior I, Junior II, Senior I, and Senior II categories, along with Solo Latin Female Juvenile I and II divisions. The standard of dancing was remarkably high, with couples showcasing refined technique and youthful fire, while solo competitors delivered poise and personality well beyond their age.
Highlighted Results – Top 3
WDSF Open Standard Junior I
- Ai Jintao – Ma Yijing (CHN)
- Sergey Lyubchenko – Madina Mirzaeva (UZB)
- Zhang Haoyu – Zhao Chenyi (CHN)
WDSF Open Standard Junior II
- Lu Jiachen – Zhou Xinyu (CHN)
- Ruan Yicheng – Chen Kailin (CHN)
- Zhang Linchao – Xu Yingtong (CHN)
WDSF Open Standard Senior I
- Yang Zhijia – Yang Xiaoju (CHN)
- Deng Yu – Wang Yafen (CHN)
- Zheng Xiangqi – Su Haiying (CHN)
WDSF Open Standard Senior II
- Yang Zhijia – Yang Xiaoju (CHN)
- Bao Guangjun – Zheng Min (CHN)
- Chen Jinshui – Wang Changting (CHN)
WDSF Open Solo Latin Female Juvenile I
- Jin Xinyi (CHN)
- Cao Zhaojunxi (CHN)
- Mu Heanrui (CHN)
WDSF Open Solo Latin Female Juvenile II
- Jiang Jinyue (CHN)
- Su Ruixuan (CHN)
- Liang Sichen (CHN)
You can find the full results of the day here.
World Championship Latin Youth – Artistry Meets Intensity
After a truly breathtaking Opening Ceremony—featuring an exhibition performance of more than 100 athletes on the floor and an array of artistic showcases—the day shifted into high gear as we approached the highly anticipated World Championship Latin Youth semifinals and finals.
With athletes coupled up and battling for the world title, the energy inside the Expo Centre was electric. Nearly 60 couples fighting to claim the crown in a battle where technique meets beauty, detail blends with emotion, and intensity dances with grace—until the lines between them dissolve into pure artistry gliding across the floor. Impossible not to mention the unforgettable moment that came during the final Cha Cha Cha of the Semifinal, set to the rhythm of Cassino by Empress Ballroom. As the song echoed through the venue, the crowd began clapping along instinctively—fueling the dancers' drive and lifting the atmosphere to a euphoric peak.
After five demanding dances, the final brought together seven outstanding couples—representing nearly as many nations, with Germany the only country placing two couples in the showdown. As expected, the final duel between Dimitrii Kalistov & Luna Maria Albanese (GER) and Adria Hernandez & Emilija Ulcinaite (ESP) had the audience on edge. In the end, the German couple edged their way to gold by the narrowest of margins—an extraordinary triumph in their first-ever Youth World Championship.
In their post-event reflections with WDSF, Dimitrii and Luna opened their hearts, expressing deep gratitude for the team, the guidance of their coaches, and the unwavering support behind their success. This season has already seen them reclaim the European Championship Latin Youth, add three Open titles in Germany, another in Austria, and—worthy of special note—their victory in Blackpool during the inaugural WDSF DanceSport Festival last April. But this was their first-ever World Championship Latin in this age group—a milestone etched in emotion. Still overwhelmed, caught between disbelief and joy, they spoke of their families’ support with tears held tightly in their eyes, their voices trembling with meaning. The full interview will soon be available on our Instagram—so don't miss it when it drops!
WDSF World Championship Youth Latin – Final Results
- Dimitrii Kalistov – Luna Maria Albanese (GER)
- Adria Hernandez – Emilija Ulcinaite (ESP)
- Antonio Stillante – Iana Moiseenko (ITA)
- Liu Mingda – Yin Heyin (CHN)
- Maddox Loevenhardt – Sara Coman (DEN)
- Yigit Bayraktar – Lukrecija Kuraite (GER)
- Frederik Roostfeldt – Ciara Simone Pirn (EST)
You can find the full results of the day here.
Acknowledgements and Closing Thoughts
The WDSF extends its heartfelt thanks to the Chinese DanceSport Federation (CDSF), DanceSport Asia, and the Local Organising Committee of Wuxi for setting the tone with an exceptional first day. From production quality to athlete care, the delivery has already exceeded expectations—proof that this event continues to raise the bar every year.
We also thank the brands and partners who make this Festival possible through their continued support and belief in the DanceSport community.
WDSF President Shawn Tay addressed the crowd during the opening remarks:
“With 30 world-class competitions, the Asian DanceSport Festival is a true celebration of excellence, and Wuxi has become a premier destination for our sport. The outstanding performances on the opening day—especially in the Youth Latin World Championship—reflect the artistic brilliance and unifying spirit that make DanceSport truly extraordinary."
Watch the Replays
Missed today’s show? Head to our YouTube channel and catch the full replay of the World Championship Latin Youth finals.
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