As the 2025 World Games wrapped up in southwest China's Chengdu on Sunday, athletes bid emotional farewells, praising the cultural exchanges and heartfelt hospitality they experienced at the Athletes Village, which will close its doors on Monday.
Before departing, international participants penned heartfelt messages on the Village's Chinese Bridge Experience Center board, conveying their appreciation and the emotional weight of saying goodbye.
As the athletes head home, many said they were leaving with unforgettable memories of not only the Games, but also of the welcoming spirit and cultural charms of China.
"I got to do this activity, which I really wanted to do since the day I got here. This is my name, my name in Chinese, and says that it's drawn by me. Being in China for the first time, it's really special. And so this is a great reminder for me of the time I have had here," said Stephen, a staff member from the Canadian delegation.
For Gabriel, an athlete from Brazil, the experience was unforgettable.
"The experience is unique, and I don't think I have ever experienced something like that in my life, even though I've played other World Games. So we're going to miss a lot of this, not only the time in China, but also with my teammates. Everything here went perfectly for us," he said.
From Aug 8 to 16, the Village hosted daily cultural activities, including Chinese traditional arts, music, and dance exchange events, providing international athletes with immersive and joyful cultural moments.
"You are really doing a great job. I want to cry from happiness. So it's so sad to say goodbye because really you would like to stay more and live [with] more of these emotions," said Natalia, International Cheer Union coach.
"We came with 105 people, and everyone had high praise for this place. The Chinese people are incredibly warm and kind. I truly feel like bowing in gratitude. We have never experienced anything like this, not in Austria, not anywhere else in Europe," said Othmar, a staff member from Austria.
A total of 6,679 athletes, sports team officials and technicians from 116 countries and regions participated in the Chengdu World Games, setting a new record in terms of participation.
Launched in 1981 and staged every four years, the World Games is the highest-level international multi-sport event outside the Olympic Games, featuring sports and disciplines that are not on the Olympic program. This year's event ran from Aug 7 to 17.
World Games Athletes' Village closes with warm farewells
