In a remarkable testament to human perseverance and the limitless power of sport, Lin Yu-mao (林友茂), a 104-year-old badminton player from Taiwan, will compete in the 10th World Masters Games, set to take place from May 17-31, 2025, across Taipei and New Taipei City.
At a press conference organized by the Taipei City Department of Information and Tourism, Lin’s participation was formally announced, shining a light not just on his incredible age, but on the spirit of resilience and vitality that the World Masters Games aim to celebrate.
Lin Yu-mao: A Story of Passion and Purpose Beyond Age
Lin Yu-mao, certified by Guinness World Records as the oldest competitive badminton player, embodies the event’s 2025 slogan: “Sports beyond Age & Life without Limits.”
At the press event, Lin shared his secret to longevity:
- Exercise regularly
- Sing joyfully
- Perform good deeds
Initially a Tai Chi practitioner, Lin switched to badminton at the age of 50, after discovering the joy and public admiration that came with excelling in the sport. His story highlights that it is never too late to find a new passion, reinforcing a growing global movement encouraging lifelong sports participation to enhance health, happiness, and social connection.
Dressed in a vibrant red outfit, Lin said he chose the color because it symbolizes energy and vitality — a subtle but powerful message to younger athletes and spectators alike.
A Showcase of Ageless Athletes at the 2025 Games
Lin will be joined by thousands of fellow elder athletes:
- Over 25,000 athletes have registered for the 2025 games.
- More than 2,000 competitors are aged 65 and above.
- Fifteen athletes are aged 90 or older, including eight from Taiwan.
At the press conference, other Taiwanese elder athletes were also highlighted:
- Su Chen-tsun (蘇振村), 93, a woodball player with more than 20 years of competitive experience, confidently aiming to defend his gold medal.
- Chen Yen-ti (陳彥地), 95, a swimmer who swims 1,600 meters twice a week, cycles, and practices qigong, hoping to beat his own national record in the 50-meter backstroke for ages 90-94.
- Lin Ju-tsung (林汝聰), 90, another veteran swimmer, who emphasized the importance of a strong dive at the start of a swimming race.
Interestingly, the oldest participant at the 2025 games will be a 105-year-old Thai track and field athlete, showing that the spirit of ageless sportsmanship transcends borders.
The Global Importance of the World Masters Games
The World Masters Games is the world’s largest multi-sport event for athletes aged 30 years and above, organized every four years. It offers non-professional athletes the chance to compete on a global stage, challenging age stereotypes and promoting physical activity across life spans.
The previous edition was held in Auckland, New Zealand in 2017. After an eight-year gap due to pandemic disruptions, the 2025 edition is set to be bigger and more symbolic than ever, especially for Taiwan, which seeks to showcase not only its athletes but also its hospitality and organizational prowess.
Taipei Deputy Mayor Lin Yi-hua (林奕華) remarked that the inclusion of these extraordinary elder athletes perfectly embodies the games’ motto, helping the city promote a vision of active, limitless aging.
Commentary: What Lin Yu-mao’s Story Means for Global Society
Lin’s participation is more than an inspirational anecdote — it reflects a global shift toward redefining aging. With populations aging rapidly, particularly in East Asia and Europe, promoting physical fitness, social engagement, and mental stimulation among seniors is not just a personal goal but a public health strategy.
Research shows that seniors involved in physical activity experience:
- Lower rates of chronic illness (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- Better mental health
- Greater social connectedness
- Higher life satisfaction
Lin’s story is a shining example that “elderly” does not mean “inactive” — a mindset shift crucial for societies grappling with demographic aging.
FAQs
Who is Lin Yu-mao?
Lin Yu-mao is a 104-year-old badminton player from Taiwan, recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest competitive shuttler.
What are the World Masters Games?
The World Masters Games are the world’s largest international multi-sport event for athletes aged 30 and above, held every four years.
When and where will the 2025 World Masters Games be held?
The games will take place from May 17-31, 2025, across Taipei and New Taipei City, Taiwan.
How did Lin Yu-mao stay so healthy and active at 104?
Lin attributes his longevity to regular exercise, singing, doing good deeds, and staying socially and physically engaged.
How many athletes aged 90 or above will compete?
There will be 15 athletes aged 90 and above at the 2025 Games, including eight from Taiwan.
