A Celebration of Sport, Spirit, and Senior Athleticism
Taipei, Taiwan – The 2025 World Masters Games officially opened on Saturday, May 17, at the grand Taipei Dome, setting the stage for two weeks of spirited competition, cultural exchange, and a powerful showcase of global unity through sport.
Held for the first time in Taiwan, this edition of the World Masters Games marks a significant moment in the island’s sporting history. With more than 25,000 athletes from 107 countries — all aged 30 and above — this international multi-sport event is not only about athletic performance, but also about active aging, inclusion, and fostering lifelong fitness.
🎉 Opening Ceremony Highlights: A Cultural Spectacle
The opening ceremony was a colorful and energetic celebration that paid tribute to both Taiwanese culture and the diversity of the global participants. The program opened with a heartfelt entrance by Para athletes, reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
Next came waves of athletes representing countries from every continent — all walking into the arena amid cheers, music, and dancing. Despite official restrictions on the display of national flags at venues and medal ceremonies due to the event’s “individual-based” model, several athletes were seen proudly waving the flags of Taiwan (ROC), Brazil, India, Japan, Singapore, Mongolia, South Africa, and Mexico. This subtle act underscored the pride athletes hold for their nations, even in a competition meant to transcend national identity.
Joining the celebration were high-profile Taiwanese political figures: Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih, who both expressed their pride in Taiwan hosting such a prestigious and unifying event.
🧓 Age Is Just a Number: Seniors Redefining Sport
One of the defining aspects of the World Masters Games is its emphasis on age-inclusivity. Among the 25,000+ registered athletes, over 2,000 are aged 65 or older, participating in disciplines ranging from swimming and tennis to archery and table tennis.
These athletes challenge the traditional stereotypes of aging by proving that competitive spirit, discipline, and passion for sport do not diminish with age. The Games provide a platform for these individuals not only to compete but to inspire younger generations and highlight the importance of lifelong physical activity for health and mental well-being.
🏟️ Taiwan’s Opportunity: Sports Tourism and Global Recognition
Hosting the World Masters Games presents Taiwan with a massive opportunity to showcase its capabilities in organizing large-scale international events. It also opens doors for sports tourism, with thousands of athletes and supporters traveling to the region and exploring local culture, food, and hospitality.
Moreover, Taiwan’s careful organization of the event — including COVID-19 contingency protocols, high-quality venues across Taipei and New Taipei, and modern digital infrastructure for event coordination — reflects its ambitions to play a larger role in global sports diplomacy.
By welcoming athletes from over 100 countries, Taiwan demonstrates its readiness to engage globally, beyond the limitations of traditional diplomacy where it faces constraints due to geopolitical tensions.
🗓️ The Games Ahead: Competition and Camaraderie
The 2025 World Masters Games will run until May 30, 2025, featuring over 30 sports disciplines held across venues in Taipei and New Taipei. Events include swimming, athletics, badminton, cycling, basketball, martial arts, and more.
While medals are awarded, the real prize is in participation, friendship, and the stories shared among athletes who have defied time and expectations to continue doing what they love — competing with honor, pride, and joy.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Event: 2025 World Masters Games
- Location: Taipei and New Taipei, Taiwan
- Participants: Over 25,000 athletes from 107 countries
- Age Requirement: 30 years and older (2,000+ aged 65+)
- Duration: May 17–30, 2025
- Opening Ceremony: Held at the Taipei Dome with dance, music, and athletes’ parade
- Highlight: Para athletes and inclusive spirit of the Games
- Flags Seen: Despite rules, several national flags, including Taiwan’s, were visible
❓ FAQs
What are the World Masters Games?
The World Masters Games is an international multi-sport event for athletes aged 30 and above. It promotes healthy aging and global friendship through sport.
How often are the World Masters Games held?
Every four years, similar to the Olympics.
Can professional athletes participate?
Yes, but the Games focus on amateur and recreational athletes who continue training and competing later in life.
Why are national flags restricted in the Games?
Because the Games emphasize individual participation over national representation, flags are restricted at official venues and medal ceremonies.
Which sports are included in the 2025 edition?
Athletics, swimming, badminton, tennis, archery, martial arts, and over 30 disciplines in total.
