On August 7, Shen Yiqin, a member of the State Council of China, officially declared the opening of the 12th World Games at a grand ceremony held at the Tianfu International Convention Center in Chengdu. With athletes from 116 countries and regions participating, this edition of the Games—held under the theme “Boundless Sports, Countless Miracles”—has become the most inclusive and largest in history. During the ceremony, Chinese water skiers Xu Lu and Alu Xiaobo carried the torch across the lake surface and lit the cauldron. A spectacular fireworks show lit up the night sky.
Running from August 7 to 17, Chengdu 2025 marks the first time the World Games are being hosted on the Chinese mainland. This year, a record number of 6,679 athletes and officials from 116 countries and regions are attending. China is represented by the largest delegation, with 489 members including 321 athletes. For the first time, para-athletes are participating in the Games, and China will compete in 12 new sports, including cheerleading, flying disc, and motorized water sports.
During the ceremony, IWGA President José Perurena praised Chengdu’s contributions, saying, “Chengdu is not just the host, it is the heart of these Games.” In a video message, IOC President Kirsty Coventry thanked the Chinese organizers, volunteers, and the people of Chengdu, expressing deep appreciation for their excellent hosting and support. The ceremony concluded with traditional Chinese dance performances and a children’s choir singing the Games’ theme song, “Countless Miracles.”