China made history at the 2023 World Games in Chengdu by securing its best-ever performance, topping both the gold and overall medal tables for the first time. The 321-strong athlete contingent claimed 36 gold, 17 silver, and 11 bronze medals across 28 sports, breaking two world records in the process.
Deputy delegation head Zhang Xin announced the milestone on Sunday, emphasizing that 45 Chinese athletes stood atop podiums in 18 disciplines. Ten para-athletes further highlighted the team's depth, earning five golds and one silver while demonstrating 'tenacious quality,' according to Zhang.
The August 7-17 event, themed 'Boundless Sports, Countless Wonders,' saw China field its largest-ever delegation of 489 members. Notably, most athletes trained through schools, social clubs, or independent programs rather than traditional state systems. Zhang stressed the delegation maintained strict adherence to anti-doping protocols and sportsmanship principles throughout the competition.
This performance underscores China's growing influence in international multisport events beyond the Olympics, particularly in emerging and niche sports. Analysts suggest the results may reshape training approaches and investment priorities in global athletic development.
