Brazil’s Taina Hinckel catches a wave during a surf training session in Teahupo’o, on the French Polynesian Island of Tahiti, on July 26, ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Game (XINHUA)

Forty years ago when China secured its first Olympic gold medal in Los Angeles, the United States, the country's 225 athletes competed in 16 sports. This year, Team China, consisting of 405 Olympians, is competing in 30 of the 32 sports featured during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games. It is participating in 236 out of the 329 medal events at the Games, which opened in the French capital on July 26 and will conclude on August 11.

China has come a long way in its Olympic journey. But what matters is not just numbers; the country's approach to sports has also evolved.

While China's prowess in sports like table tennis and diving is expected to be maintained, Gen Z athletes seek to capture global attention in emerging Olympic sports from breaking to bicycle motocross (BMX), both of which see Chinese participation for the first time.

On July 31, world No.1 table tennis player Wang Chuqin lost in the men's singles round of 32, sending shockwaves through Chinese audiences. On the same day, 18-year-old Deng Yawen won gold in the women's cycling BMX freestyle, marking China's first Olympic medal in this sport. BMX freestyle, known for its fast and exciting bike races, made its Olympic debut at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games three years ago.

China's progress is largely due to the emphasis on integrating sports with education. Schools across the country are encouraged to offer courses in different sports. A diverse physical education program not only promotes students' physical and mental wellbeing but also helps fully develop their potential. In recent years, China has increased its focus on youth sports, especially since the international performance of some of the country's major team sports has declined. Soccer and handball are the only sports in which both Chinese men's and women's teams failed to qualify for Paris 2024.

Meanwhile, national fitness programs have led to the proliferation of sports facilities. They have also galvanized a growing awareness of the importance of sports and increased participation across all age groups.

The Olympic values of solidarity, equality and human dignity are more vital today than ever given the unprecedented challenges the world faces. From an outsider to a major player, China has shown its commitment to the Olympic spirit in sports and beyond. Only by living up to these values can humanity meet the pressing challenges of our time.