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Japan repeated as men’s team champion at the World Gymnastics Championships, adding to its 2024 Olympic title to extend its longest reign atop the sport in nearly 50 years.
The Japanese, led by the last two Olympic all-around gold medalists Daiki Hashimoto and Shinnosuke Oka, topped rival a team of Russian gymnasts for gold in Rotterdam, Netherlands. China took bronze to round out the first three nations to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The U.S. finished sixth — its lowest spot since 2006 — bringing back one member of the 2024 Olympic bronze medal team (Frederick Richard). The Americans can still qualify for LA 2028 at the 2027 Worlds, where the last nine Olympic team spots will be decided.
Japan has won three consecutive Olympic or world team titles for the first time since it won all 10 Olympic and world titles from 1960 through 1978.
The Japanese prevailed comfortably — by 1.599 points, more than the margin of a fall on a routine — despite worlds rookie Shohei Kawakami falling off the high bar on the final rotation.
Worlds continue Wednesday with the women’s team final, live on Peacock and NBCSN at 1:30 p.m. ET.
The U.S. women won the last seven world team titles dating to 2011, but China had the highest score in qualifying.