The 12th World Games, held in Chengdu, China, have drawn international acclaim for their organization and hospitality. As of the fourth day of competition, China leads the medal table with 18 golds, 6 silvers, and 2 bronzes, demonstrating strength in both traditional and niche sports such as wushu, squash, beach handball, and finswimming, where a new relay world record was set. Notable Chinese achievements include gold medals in men's and women's speed climbing by Chu Shouhong and Deng Lijuan, respectively, as well as multiple billiards golds by Zhang Taiyi and Xiao Guodong. The event features a range of sports including water skiing, wakeboarding, freediving, drone racing, and ultimate frisbee, with Team USA competing strongly in ultimate frisbee pool play. The Games have also fostered cultural exchange through official merchandise and dance performances, highlighting regional traditions like Xizang dance. International athletes have praised Chengdu's environment and the Games' atmosphere. Meanwhile, some competitions saw setbacks for China, such as losses in ultimate flying disc and women's flag football against Colombia and the United States, respectively. The International World Games Association president, Jose Perurena, described the event as poised to become one of the best in history.
In the women’s Group A preliminary round of flag football at the 2025 Chengdu World Games, Team China lost 12–39 to the United States. A spinoff of American football, flag football keeps the sport’s core techniques and competitiveness while simplifying the rules, making it easier https://t.co/wlNK8LgKq8
In the Consolation Semifinal for 5th–8th place in team Ultimate Flying Disc at the 2025 Chengdu World Games, Chinese team lost 10–13 to Colombian team. Made up mainly of university students and local club players, the Chinese national team still displayed grit and strong form https://t.co/wPlyFTtGyb
Watch: #Sports Without Borders, Youth Together! What happens when sports meet culture? What sparks fly when global youth unite? Join CGTN Merna at Beijing Sport University for a thrilling look at how sports break down barriers. #YouthPlus https://t.co/YH0vrCgNjj