20th Asian Games Officially Open in Japan with More Than 11,000 Athletes

NAGOYA: The 20th Asian Games were officially opened in Nagoya on Saturday, with more than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions set to compete across 43 sports during the 16-day continental sporting event.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the opening ceremony at Nagoya City Stadium, where the Emperor formally declared the Games open. Olympic Council of Asia President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani also addressed the ceremony, while International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry was among the dignitaries in attendance.

The ceremony was held under the theme “Harmonic Heart Beat,” with a large heart-shaped stage forming the centerpiece of the event. Afghanistan led the traditional parade of athletes, while host Japan entered last and received a warm reception from the home crowd.

The Asian Games feature established Olympic disciplines including athletics, swimming and football, alongside sports with strong regional traditions such as kurash, kabaddi and sepak takraw. Mixed martial arts, padel, teqball and esports have also been included in the competition programme.

The Games have a larger athlete field than the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, which involved about 10,700 athletes. Japan has fielded the largest delegation with 933 athletes, while China is represented by more than 800 competitors.

Some competitions began before the official opening ceremony because of the crowded schedule. Basketball matches started on September 10, while football competitions also began earlier in the week.

Organizers have faced logistical challenges, including accommodation arrangements for athletes and officials. Instead of constructing a dedicated athletes’ village, accommodation has been arranged through hotels, a cruise ship and converted wooden container units. Some athletes have raised concerns about room sizes and other facilities.

The Games will continue through October 4, bringing together athletes from across Asia for competition in a wide range of sporting disciplines.