Sport climbing speed world record holder Watson enjoys time in Chengdu, aims for gold at LA 2028

Sport climbing speed world record holder Samuel Watson of the USA finished his event at the 2025 Chengdu World Games with a silver medal, despite continuing to battle a lingering shoulder injury. In an interview with CGTN Sports Scene's Yuan Rui, the 19-year-old said he is enjoying his time in the capital of Sichuan Province, and will keep working hard to improve.

Watson has visited a number of sights during this trip to Chengdu, which is one of China's most popular tourist destinations, and was treated to a taste of the unique local culture. He noted that he appreciates the hospitality of the local residents, and has built good relationships with several Chinese athletes and staff members.

The American noted that world champion Zhong Qixin of China, who now coaches the national team, is his idol. He admires Zhong not only for his successful career as an athlete, but also his ongoing dedication to the sport by continuing to make contributions as a coach.

Watson set the men's speed world record of 4.64 seconds in May, breaking his own earlier mark. He expressed pride in that achievement which, in his words, is different "than sort of any medal or singular event win."

Sport climbing made its debut three years ago at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics, and remained on the program for the 2024 Paris Games, as well as the upcoming 2028 edition in Los Angeles. Watson earned the bronze medal in the French capital last summer.

He added that he understands how consuming the four years between two editions of the Olympics can be, as athletes also need to take part in many other major competitions. As a result, quite a few high-level performers choose to skip certain events, but Waston wants to maintain his own rhythm, as he aims for the top of the podium in LA in three years.