Indonesian Wushu Sends Three Sanda Athletes to 11th World Cup in Macao

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Wushu Federation (PB WI) has officially dispatched three sanda athletes to compete at the 11th Sanda World Cup 2026 in Macao, taking place from May 11–16, 2026.

The International Wushu Federation (IWUF) selected Indonesia’s representatives based on their world-class achievements.

The athletes are Nasya Aulia Wahana (women’s 48kg), Tharisa Dea Florentina (women’s 52kg), and Fereddy Sinaga (men’s 52kg).

They are accompanied by coaches Victor and Laksamana Pandu Pratama during the tournament.

“It is not easy to qualify for the World Cup. Participants are chosen by IWUF strictly on merit," PB WI Secretary General Ngatino said in a statement to RRI.co.id on Wednesday, May 13, 2026..

"We are proud that three Indonesian sanda athletes made the cut, proving the success of PB WI’s athlete development program,” he added.

PB WI’s Head of Special Performance Development for Sanda, Sudarsono, emphasized that international recognition of Indonesian sanda continues to grow.

He noted that competing at the World Cup provides valuable momentum ahead of preparations for the Asian Games Nagoya 2026.

“This is proof that Indonesian sanda athletes are now recognized and respected by IWUF at the global level,” Sudarsono remarked.

Both Tharisa Dea Florentina and Fereddy Sinaga are already part of the Indonesian national wushu team and will represent the country at the upcoming Asian Games.

Tharisa won gold at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand and bronze at the Wushu World Championships in Brazil, while Fereddy also secured a bronze medal at the 2025 World Championships in Brazil.

“Tharisa and Fereddy can use the World Cup as a testing ground before the Asian Games in Nagoya,” Ngatino added, stressing that the championship helps athletes assess their rivals’ strengths.

PB WI has prepared further evaluations to sharpen readiness for future international competition.

Meanwhile, Nasya Aulia Wahana gains valuable international exposure through her participation this year.

Under the leadership of Airlangga Hartarto, PB WI continues to expand Indonesia’s wushu achievements across prestigious global tournaments.

Indonesia’s presence at the World Cup highlights the rapid progress of its sanda development program and reinforces the nation’s growing international recognition in the sport. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)