The 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games officially concluded
The Asian Games, hosted by the charming city of Hangzhou in 2022, has now come to a close. Over the course of 16 days, the event saw its fair share of triumphs and disappointments, as well as moments that will be remembered for years to come. A Weibo post from Xinshangcai News took fans on a journey down memory lane, showcasing 50 photos of participants at the Games.
8 October 2023
The closing ceremony began with an emotional post from Wang Shun, who expressed pride and honor in representing his country and wished for continued prosperity. Other netizens, such as Xiong Dunhan, thanked everyone for their energy and enthusiasm, while also looking forward to future events. CCTV News celebrated the successful conclusion of the Games with a heartfelt Weibo post, congratulating the athlete heroes and cheering on China.
One particularly touching moment came from Xu Jingtaowu, who shared a video of himself at the age of 170, reflecting on the significance of Hangzhou and expressing his desire for another visit to the city. The closing ceremony announcement by Aqua Games was also met with excitement and anticipation among athletes.
Netizens were moved by the sense of beginning, middle, and end of the Hangzhou Asian Games, as personified by the recurring osmanthus rain that bookended the event. This symbolism not only brought a sense of closure but also highlighted the romantic charm of Hangzhou, which was able to captivate Asia with its unique blend of history and modernity.
However, amidst the celebrations, there were also reminders of global issues that couldn't be ignored. A Weibo post from Beijing·Beijing 1039 expressed deep sadness over the destruction of historical sites in Syria, emphasizing the importance of prayer for the safety of the country and its heritage.
Another significant achievement was Fujian's historical best results at the Asian Games, with a second-place finish that sparked pride among netizens. The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center also got attention as fans turned their focus to potential future events at the venue.
As the closing ceremony drew to a close, MMC screens fell silent and there was a sense of parting in the air. In its final moments, the Hangzhou Organizing Committee emphasized the theme of the closing ceremony, showcasing the unity and strength that had been fostered during the Games. The extinguishing of the main torch signaled the end of the event, but also marked a new beginning in the journey towards the next Asian Games.