In the Puyo Puyo Champions final, 11‑year‑old Yuki Kurihara dominated South Korea’s Kang Dongshin, sealing a 10‑2 win after dropping the first game.
After a 1‑0 setback, Kurihara rattled the board, dismantling the Korean strategy with a rapid 9‑0 streak, turning the tide before the final.
His semi‑final run saw him crush Thailand’s Tanarak Wongkitkun 28‑1, guaranteeing a medal before the final.
Despite the triumph, Kurihara admitted feeling ‘embarrassed’ and kept a tight‑fisted celebration, offering a subtle bow and a shy wave.
With a professional licence in hand, the 11‑year‑old now eyes the 2026 World Esports Championship, aiming to prove that age is just a number.