As the 15th National Games approach in 2025, designer Cao Xue, creator of the beloved 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic mascot Bing Dwen Dwen, recently shared insights into the cultural significance of sports symbols during an interview with Sports Scene. Cao, who also served as a torchbearer for the upcoming National Games, highlighted the distinct roles of emblems and mascots in major sporting events.
"The emblem represents the abstract vision of the Games, while the mascot becomes a bridge between the event and the people," Cao explained, reflecting on Bing Dwen Dwen's global recognition. He recalled praise from former International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, who hailed the panda mascot as "an ambassador for winter sports" during the 2022 Olympics.
The designer described carrying the National Games torch as a profound responsibility, contrasting the physical act of torch-bearing with his studio-based creative work. "Holding the flame reminded me how cultural symbols like Bing Dwen Dwen carry forward China's sporting spirit to new generations," he said.
