The 12th edition of The World Games officially opened on August 7, 2025, in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, at the Tianfu International Convention Center. The event features nearly 4,000 athletes from more than 110 countries and regions competing in 256 events across 34 sports, many of which are not part of the Olympic program. The opening ceremony showcased Chengdu's rich cultural heritage with a spectacular fireworks display, including a "tree of life" motif, and was declared open by State Councilor Shen Yiqin. The Chinese delegation is the largest ever sent to the Games, comprising 489 members and 321 athletes. Early competitions have seen China secure multiple medals, including golds in wushu, freediving, and squash, with athlete Lu Zhuoling winning the first gold in the Taijiquan-Taijijian wushu event. The Games introduced dragon boat racing as an official competition and feature diverse sports such as climbing, squash, roller skating, dancesport, and disc flying. Chinese para athlete Long Dengxi won two gold medals in freediving events, while China set a new finswimming relay world record. The event also emphasizes cultural exchange, with international volunteers trained at Chengdu University and global participants praising the organization and hospitality. The World Games 2025 aim to boost inbound tourism in Chengdu, supported by visa-free transit policies, and highlight the city’s dynamic spirit and cultural legacy.