As China prepares to face the United States in their opening match of the FIBA Women's World Cup on Friday, they will have to do so without star center Li Yueru. The Dallas Wings player announced on Instagram that she cannot join her team in Berlin due to her lost passport, which she could not replace in time.

Li expressed her disappointment, stating, "The national team have always made me feel valued and wanted, and it has always been a tremendous honor to represent China. I was incredibly excited and looking forward to joining the national team again. Unfortunately, my passport was lost in the mail and still hasn't been found."

The 27-year-old has been a crucial part of the Chinese national team for nearly a decade, leading them to a silver medal at the 2022 World Cup where she scored 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in the final against the United States. She also excelled at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Standing at 6-foot-7, Li was anticipated to be China's starting center, and her absence poses a significant challenge for the team. Nevertheless, China still boasts considerable height with 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu and 6-foot-9 Han Xu.

Li was drafted by the Atlanta Dream in the 2019 WNBA Draft and has played for several teams, including the Chicago Sky and Los Angeles Sparks. She recently celebrated a championship with Mist BC alongside stars like Breanna Stewart.

In her heartfelt Instagram message, Li acknowledged the disappointment but remained grateful for the support she has received, saying, "Thank you for all the love and support. See you on the world stage next time." Li's absence is a significant setback for China's ambitions at this World Cup.