Illustration: Liu Xiangya/GT

Recently, Beijing's sports authority released the 2025 calendar of the sports events to be held in the Chinese capital city. This calendar includes a staggering 1,280 events throughout the year, covering a wide range of sports and levels, and promising an unprecedented viewing experience for sports enthusiasts. 

This comprehensive calendar is not only a showcase of sports events but also a catalyst for various positive changes in the city and beyond.

A number of high-level events such as the World Short Track Speed Skating Championships in March and the China Open tennis tournament in September and October will play a crucial role in enhancing Beijing's position in the international sports arena. 

The world short track championships require a high-standard ice rink and professional event management, which Beijing can deliver based on its rich experience after hosting the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. The successful hosting of such an event following the Olympic Games not only satisfies the needs of the competition but also makes the best use of the city's Olympic legacy. As the Chinese national team is also among the world's elite competitors, the event could drive sports fans both at home and abroad, attracting more international top-level events to settle in Beijing and further solidifying its status as a global sports center.

The China Open, for example, has long been a highlight on the international tennis calendar. It attracts top-ranked players from around the world, such as Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams in the past. Paris Olympics gold medalist Zheng Qinwen has also become a magnet for the local fans as the 2024 edition showed. By hosting such a prestigious event, Beijing gains global media attention and showcases its world-class sports facilities and event-organizing capabilities.

The numerous high-level events to be held in Beijing also offer domestic athletes chances to demonstrate their skills when competing with world-class counterparts. For example, during the Diving World Cup in May, the Chinese diving team, known as the "Dream Team," is expected to demonstrate their dominance when facing pressure from other international stars. Chinese divers, with their refined techniques and exceptional control, have long been the envy of the international diving community. In this event, they can not only showcase their own outstanding skills but also share their advanced training methods and technical insights with divers from other countries.

Moreover, these events will also bring excellent sports resources to teenagers. During the World Women's Volleyball League in June, local schools can arrange for students to watch the games. This event allows young volleyball fans to witness the high-level skills of international volleyball stars, inspiring them to seriously take up volleyball. Such exposure can help unearth and cultivate more sports talents for the future.

The rich event arrangements in Beijing also offer local people more opportunities to participate in and watch sports events. 

The "Hundred Team Cup" major ball games in Beijing, which involve football, basketball and volleyball, have been well-received by the public. These games attract thousands of amateur players from different age groups and backgrounds. What's more, the Beijing Marathon in October also attracts thousands of amateur runners to enjoy the 42.195-kilometer race. By participating in these competitions, local citizens can not only experience the joy of sports but also improve their physical fitness.

Moreover, international sports events in Beijing act as platforms for cultural exchange among athletes and spectators from different countries. The city will also host a robot-themed sports event. During the World Humanoid Robot Games in August, teams from various countries will bring not only their advanced robots but also their unique technological cultures. The exchange between participants and local spectators allows for the sharing of different cultures from countries such as Japan and the US.

Besides, the cultural performances and exhibitions held during these international events also contribute to cultural exchange. For example, during the Winter Sports Expo, cultural exhibitions about snow sports history from different countries are set up. This enables people to learn about the development of snow sports in various regions and the cultural significance behind them. Such exchanges foster mutual understanding and friendship among people from different backgrounds.

In addition, for those who prefer to be spectators, the large number of events, including professional and amateur competitions, provide a wide range of choices. Whether it is a thrilling football match or an exciting aquatics event, people can choose according to their interests. This stimulates the enthusiasm of the public to participate in sports, promoting the development of the national fitness cause.

The unveiling of Beijing's 2025 diverse sports event calendar brings multiple positive benefits. It not only enhances Beijing's international status in sports but also contributes to talent cultivation, public participation in sports, and cultural exchanges. As the events unfold throughout the year, we can expect Beijing to become a more vibrant and inclusive sports-friendly city.

The author is a reporter with the Global Times. life@globaltimes.com.cn