UAE Athletes Set To Compete At World Games Chengdu 2025 In Three Sports

The UAE is set to participate in the 12th World Games in Chengdu, China, from 7th to 17th August. A team of eight athletes will compete in jiu-jitsu, muaythai, and triathlon. This event will feature over 5,000 athletes from 118 countries across 34 sports disciplines.

The UAE's national jiu-jitsu team comprises six athletes: Mohammed Al Suwaidi (69 kg), Mahdi Al Awlaki (77 kg), Saeed Al Kubaisi (85 kg), Asma Al Hosani (52 kg), Shamsa Al Amri (57 kg), and Shamma Al Kalbani (63 kg). Maryam Al Shamsi will represent the nation in triathlon, while Mohammed Touizi will compete in muaythai.

The UAE has a history of success at the World Games since its debut in 2009 in Taiwan. Mohamed Shehab won a bronze medal in snooker during that edition. Over the years, the UAE has accumulated a total of 12 medals at these games.

In the 10th edition held in Poland in 2017, Faisal Al Ketbi achieved gold and silver medals for the national jiu-jitsu team. Additionally, the national air sports team secured a bronze medal in parachuting's mixed category during the same event.

The UAE's best performance occurred at the last edition in Birmingham, USA, where they won eight medals: two golds, one silver, and five bronzes. These achievements were in jiu-jitsu, muaythai, and freefall parachuting.

Following this success, the UAE improved its position by climbing ten places to rank 56th out of 101 countries on the all-time World Games medals table. Italy remains at the top with a total of 490 medals despite finishing fourth with 49 medals in Birmingham.

Organisational Structure and Upcoming Challenges

The International World Games Association (IWGA) organises this multi-sport event every four years. Recognised by the International Olympic Committee, IWGA includes 40 international sports federations. The Technical and Sports Affairs Department of the National Olympic Committee recently conducted a virtual meeting with participating sports federations to finalise preparations for this global event.

The upcoming games present an opportunity for UAE athletes to continue their successful streak on an international stage. With rigorous preparations underway, expectations are high for another commendable performance by these talented individuals representing their nation.

With inputs from WAM