Written by Dr. Ryan M. Cevola, DC ICSC
The World Games 2025 – Chengdu, China
This August, Chengdu, China hosted the World Games 2025 — the second-largest international multi-sport event after the Olympics. Held every four years, the World Games spotlight over 30 non-Olympic sports and serve as a platform for potential Olympic inclusion. For many athletes, competing here is the peak of their careers.
Chengdu Impressions
Chengdu exceeded all expectations. Clean streets, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a strong sense of safety stood out immediately. Even the traffic lights synced with navigation apps! While the presence of surveillance cameras was notable, the overall experience was efficient and welcoming. Locals were warm, and the city proved China’s readiness to host major global events.
My Journey
My World Games journey began in 2024, soon after applications opened. After months of waiting, I received confirmation and began preparing: visa paperwork, embassy visits, and flight coordination. I eventually teamed up with two fellow chiropractors — Carlos Tavares from Portugal and Joaquin Sanchez from Spain — and we traveled together via Sichuan Airlines, which generously upgraded our seats as World Games participants.
Arrival & Setup
Upon arrival, we were guided by an army of helpful volunteers through expedited customs and into the athlete village. The village felt like a 4-star hotel — brand new, organized, and secure. Full airport-style security checks were in place each time we entered, much like the Olympics.
On the Ground: Treating Athletes
I started by working two days with softball and baseball teams, primarily Venezuela and Argentina. Their fast-pitch softball was impressive — nearly 90 mph! My Spanish helped greatly in communication.
Next up: three days at archery. The precision and calm of the sport were fascinating. In quieter moments, we could sit in the stands and enjoy the competition.
I then moved on to Ultimate Flying Disc, a high-paced team sport I’d worked with previously in the 2022 Alabama World Games. It’s always a favorite — fast, competitive, and demanding. Team sports kept us busy, offering many treatment opportunities.
One day, I also assisted at the boules venue, treating an athlete with heat-related symptoms. It was my first time seeing Lyonnaise, a fast-paced variant of Pétanque involving running. Unfortunately, the heat was brutal throughout the Games. Tragically, an Italian orienteering athlete passed away due to heat stroke — a sobering reminder of the risks these athletes face.
Wrapping Up
Two intense weeks flew by. I missed the closing ceremony due to my flight, but was grateful to watch it later. Despite our different styles, all of us — as sports chiropractors under FICS — came together as a team. It was a joy to reconnect with old colleagues and meet new ones. These events forge lifelong friendships.
