There was no men’s event at the World Games in China, where there was a repeat of the women’s final from 2022 in Birmingham, Alabama.

Mexico shocked USA on that occasion by winning 39-6, though the Americans beat Mexico in the past two World Championship finals – in 2021 and 2024.

And Mexico showed that their 2022 gold was no fluke by clinching a dramatic victory in a game which went right down to the wire.

Mexico led 14-7 at half-time before USA edged into a 21-20 lead, as they added the extra point after scoring a touchdown with just 28 seconds left on the clock.

But the defending champions were able to get into position to snatch victory and with just three seconds remaining, quarterback Diana Flores found a wide-open Victoria Chavez in the end zone to spark emotional celebrations among the Mexico players.

“I’m so proud,” said Flores. “We just played the greatest football here and I’m blessed to be part of it.”

Pierre Trochet, president of the International Federation of American Football (Ifaf), added: “It’s a thrilling time for flag football.

“This was simply an amazing tournament – the best ever in our sport’s history – and a huge step forward on the road to Los Angeles 2028.”