Chinese wakeboarder Xu Lu delivered a storybook performance at the World Games in Chengdu, securing gold in the women's wakeboard freestyle final just days after starring in the event's opening ceremony. The Sichuan-born athlete edged out Italy's Alice Virag and Argentina's Eugenia De Armas to claim victory, marking a triumphant return to international competition following a career-threatening injury.
Xu's journey to the podium was paved with resilience. After qualifying for the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama, she withdrew due to injury—a setback that only fueled her determination. Her comeback reached symbolic heights during the Chengdu opening ceremony, where she and fellow Chinese athlete Alu Xiaobo executed daring water stunts to light the cauldron using waves generated by a motorboat.
The 25-year-old's technical precision and aerial maneuvers during Sunday's final demonstrated why she's considered a pioneer in the sport. 'This medal represents years of overcoming challenges,' Xu told reporters after the event, though official interviews were limited due to competition protocols.
Her victory adds to China's growing presence in action sports, particularly in events making their World Games debut. The Chengdu competition also highlighted innovative approaches to water sports infrastructure, with organizers utilizing advanced wave-generation technology to ensure consistent conditions.
