Swiss runner Riccardo Rancan captured the first gold medal at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, blazing through the men’s foot orienteering middle-distance course in 45 minutes and 22 seconds. His performance set a high bar for athletes across all sports as the Games got underway.
Competing against a global field, the Chinese mainland’s Tang Jianda crossed 18th, while the Chinese mainland’s Liu Xiaoming placed 23rd, showcasing the host nation’s growing strength in the sport.
On the women’s side, Simona Aebersold delivered a second gold for Switzerland by navigating the same course to victory. Slovakia’s Tereza Smelikova took silver, and Sweden’s Alva Sonesson claimed bronze, rounding out a podium that highlighted orienteering talent from three continents.
With the opening medals decided, all eyes now turn to Chengdu’s challenging trails and the next wave of under-the-radar heroes ready to make their mark at the World Games.
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Switzerland's Riccardo Rancan wins first gold at 2025 World Games
cgtn.com
