Celebrating Asian unity, 6th Asian Beach Games open in Sanya

The 6th Asian Beach Games were officially inaugurated on Thursday evening in the coastal Chinese city.
The event opens a multi-sport spectacle featuring athletes from across Asia in beach and water-based disciplines.

The opening ceremony featured a blend of cultural performances, music and a parade of athletes representing 45 National Olympic Committees, reflecting the diversity and unity of the continent.

Held against the backdrop of Sanya’s tropical coastline, the event set the tone for what organizers expect to be a vibrant edition of the Games.

The Games were formally declared open by Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin, marking the start of competition across a range of disciplines, including beach volleyball, beach soccer and surfing.

In brief remarks, the President of the Olympic Council of Asia Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani described the Games as a platform for unity and inspiration, noting that athletes would compete not only for medals but also to inspire young people across Asia.

Highlighting Asia’s diversity, he further said the continent’s strength lies in its differences, but its unity is forged through sport. At a time when the world faces conflict, hardship and division, he added that the Games stand as a message of peace, solidarity and shared humanity, reflecting what Asia can achieve through peaceful competition.

Organizers said the Games will feature top athletes competing in purpose-built coastal venues in Sanya, with events expected to draw wide regional attention both on-site and through broadcast coverage.

With competition now underway, focus shifts to the field of play, where athletes will vie for honors while showcasing the growing appeal of beach sports in Asia.