Like music and storytelling, sports are a fundamental part of human experience, originating with our ancient ancestors as they built civilisations.
Advertisement
As these sports evolved, some surprisingly resemble today’s competitions.
In ancient China, many games from thousands of years ago still connect with modern sports.
Here are four examples of ancient Chinese sports that have endured through time.
Cuju (oldest ball-kicking sport)
Advertisement
Cuju, often cited as the ancestor of modern football, is recognised by Fifa as the oldest documented game featuring ball kicking. Unlike contemporary football, cuju resembled a combination of a dribbling competition and volleyball.