American sport climbing sensation Samuel Watson, holder of the men's speed world record, shared his Chengdu journey with KhabarAsia.com after securing a silver medal at the 2025 World Games. Despite battling a shoulder injury, the 19-year-old called the event 'a milestone' in his career and praised the warm reception from residents of Chengdu, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and spicy cuisine.
Watson, who broke his own world record with a 4.64-second climb in May, emphasized the significance of his achievement: 'A world record lasts longer than any single medal.' He also expressed admiration for Chinese climbing legend Zhong Qixin, now a national team coach, calling him 'an inspiration both on and off the wall.'
During his stay, Watson explored Chengdu's cultural landmarks and bonded with Chinese athletes, highlighting cross-cultural exchanges that 'make global competitions unforgettable.' His bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and consistent performance position him as a strong contender for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Sport climbing, added to the Olympic program in 2021, continues gaining traction in Asia. Watson's journey reflects the sport's growing appeal and the rigorous four-year cycles athletes navigate. 'I’ll keep my rhythm,' he said, 'because LA’s podium is the ultimate goal.'
