China has announced its flagbearers for Thursday night's opening ceremony at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu: 22-year-old acrobatic gymnast Shi Jingwei and 34-year-old roller sports powerhouse Guo Dan will lead the 321-strong delegation into the 'Tianfu Eaves' urban gallery.
Shi Jingwei, fresh from gold at the 2024 Acrobatic Gymnastics World Championships, ended a 25-year podium drought for China in the discipline. His blend of precision, strength and artistry has made him one of the most promising names in men's acrobatics.
Guo Dan, a Beijing resident who excels on both polymer-coated and ice surfaces, is the first Chinese roller athlete to win titles at the World Championships, World Cup and World Games. As a speed skater, she also represented her country at the 2018 PyeongChang and 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
The opening ceremony at the architecturally stunning 'Tianfu Eaves' will see a record-setting delegation of 321 Chinese athletes parade into Chengdu's Electric Valley, underscoring the nation's broad competitive reach—from traditional acrobatics to cutting-edge roller sports.
As the lights go up on the 'Tianfu Eaves,' Shi and Guo will carry the hopes of a nation—and inspire a new generation of global sports fans.
Reference(s):
Shi Jingwei, Guo Dan named China's flagbearers for Chengdu World Games
cgtn.com