Sheng Lihao: The Rising Star of Chinese Olympic Shooting
In the high-precision world of competitive shooting, few athletes have ascended as rapidly as Sheng Lihao. A prodigy from Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu, Sheng has transitioned from a curious teenager to a dominant force on the global stage, securing multiple Olympic medals and setting world records in the 10 metre air rifle event.
Sheng's entry into the sport was serendipitous. At age 13, during a holiday, his father introduced him to shooting. His immediate passion and natural aptitude convinced his parents to support his ambitions. Within a year, he joined the Suzhou Sports School’s Shooting team, and his rapid progression soon earned him a spot on the Jiangsu provincial team.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Sheng Lihao (盛李豪)
- Born: December 4, 2004, in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu, China
- Specialization: 10 metre air rifle
- Olympic Achievement: Gold medalist in both individual and mixed team events at the 2024 Paris Games.
- Record: Set a world record score of 637.9 points.
- Early Success: Became the youngest athlete to win an Olympic medal in shooting at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
A Rapid Ascent to Olympic Glory
Sheng's trajectory is marked by an extraordinary pace of development. By the age of 14, he had already earned a place on the China national team. Only one year later, at age 15, he was selected for the Tokyo Olympic team. His performance in Tokyo was historic, as he secured a silver medal in the 10m air rifle, making him the youngest medalist in the history of Olympic shooting.
Following his early success, Sheng continued to refine his craft under the guidance of coaches Yao Ye and Du Li. His stability and consistency reached a peak when he established a new world record with a score of 637.9 points, a level of precision that stunned even his coaching staff.
The Paris 2024 Triumph
The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris served as a crowning achievement for Sheng. He dominated the 10 metre air rifle event to claim the gold medal. Furthermore, he partnered with Huang Yuting to secure another gold medal in the 10m air rifle mixed team event, cementing his status as one of the world's premier shooters.
Career Achievements and Medal Record
Beyond the Olympics, Sheng has maintained a rigorous competition schedule, winning medals across World Championships, World Cups, and Asian Games. His versatility is evident in his success across individual, team, and mixed team formats.
| Competition | Event | Notable Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Paris Olympics | 10m Air Rifle (Individual & Mixed Team) | Gold |
| 2020 Tokyo Olympics | 10m Air Rifle | Silver |
| World Championships (2022-2025) | 10m Air Rifle (Various formats) | Multiple Medals |
| Asian Games 2022 (Hangzhou) | 10m Air Rifle (Individual & Mixed Team) | Medalist |
| Asian Championships 2023 | 10m Air Rifle (Individual & Team) | Medalist |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Sheng Lihao start shooting?
Sheng Lihao began shooting at the age of 13 after being introduced to the sport by his father during a holiday.
What is Sheng Lihao's world record score?
Sheng Lihao set a world record in the 10m air rifle with a score of 637.9 points.
Which Olympic medals has Sheng Lihao won?
He won a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and two gold medals (individual and mixed team) at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Who is Sheng Lihao's mixed team partner?
Sheng Lihao partnered with Huang Yuting to win the gold medal in the 10m air rifle mixed team event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Who coaches Sheng Lihao?
He is coached by Yao Ye (both club and national level) and Du Li (national level).