The host city of the 2025 World Games, Chengdu in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, has unveiled the stunning design for the event’s medals, nicknamed “Zhuguang” or “Chasing the Light.” The announcement came on Thursday, showcasing medals that beautifully blend local culture with a global sporting spirit.
Drawing inspiration from Chengdu’s rich heritage, the medals feature the Golden Sun Bird motif and the iconic panda, both symbols closely associated with the city. A unique aspect of the design is a detachable pin at the center of each medal, allowing athletes to gift it to someone significant, symbolizing gratitude and connection.
The front of the medal displays the emblem of the International World Games Association, encircled by the event’s name in both Chinese and English. The design incorporates flowing contour lines representing Chengdu’s skyline and the ancient Golden Sun Bird pattern, evoking layers of light that symbolize Chinese civilization and the enduring flame of sportsmanship.
On the reverse side, the official logo of the 2025 World Games is set against a background inspired by bamboo—representing resilience and integrity in Chinese culture. The inclusion of the panda mascot “Shubao” aims to express the competition’s core values of peace and friendship through sport.
The centerpiece of the medal is especially unique—a detachable metal pin that athletes can share. When opened, the reversible pin features “Jinzai,” a golden snub-nosed monkey native to Sichuan, on one side, and the Chengdu 2025 logo encircled by the Golden Sun Bird on the other. This element epitomizes lasting friendship and celebrates the vibrant spirit of Chinese sports.
The medal’s ribbon is adorned with imagery from the Golden Sun Bird, the Sanxingdui gold mask, and hibiscus motifs—the city flower of Chengdu. It also features Shu embroidery, an element of China’s national intangible cultural heritage, adding a touch of traditional craftsmanship to the modern design.
Set to be held from August 7 to 17, the 2025 World Games will feature 34 sports and 60 disciplines. The unveiling of the medals adds to the growing excitement for the event, promising a celebration that intertwines cultural heritage with international sportsmanship.
