On Thursday, the World Humanoid Robot Games commenced in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in robotics competitions with two-legged droids showcasing their abilities across various sports, including table tennis, soccer, dance, kickboxing, and the iconic track and field events. The highlight of the event was a thrilling 1,500m race where the gold medalist robot clocked an impressive six minutes and 34 seconds — a noteworthy achievement, although it still falls short of the human world record of 3:26.00.
Unitree wins the gold medal for the 1500m run at the World Humanoid Robot Games, setting a world record time of 6 minutes and 34 seconds.
The current men’s world record is 3:26. pic.twitter.com/q2VThR9n5E
— The Humanoid Hub (@TheHumanoidHub) August 15, 2025
Unitree Dominates the Race
According to the South China Morning Post, Chinese robotics company Unitree’s humanoid robot emerged victorious, claiming both the gold and bronze medals in the 1,500m race. The second-place spot was secured by the Tien Kung Ultra robot from fellow Chinese company X-Humanoid, which previously won the inaugural robot vs. human half-marathon in Beijing this April, completing the event in two hours and 40 minutes.
Technical Challenges on Display
While some robots excelled, others faced significant challenges. Reports indicate that several competitors struggled to complete the race; some even failed to start. One of the robots fell and lost an arm mid-race, while another had its head detached during the competition. Such incidents led one spectator to remark that the event was “much more exciting than seeing real humans,” underscoring the unpredictable nature of robot competitions.
A Global Showcase
The World Humanoid Robot Games are backed by the Chinese government and have attracted 280 teams from 16 countries, including notable participants from Japan, Germany, and the United States. A total of 500 robots are competing across 26 different sports, all remotely operated by teams based in universities and private companies. This diverse participation showcases the rapid advancement and international interest in robotics.
The Rise of Robotics in China
The increasing presence of robots in China is fueled by an aging population and a rising demand for automated solutions to assist and care for the elderly. The robotics sector has witnessed significant growth, driven also by a shrinking workforce that necessitates automation in various industries. According to experts, the robotics industry in China is projected to reach a staggering US$54.6 billion by 2030, indicating a robust horizon for technological investments and innovations.
Concluding Thoughts
The thrilling inaugural edition of the World Humanoid Robot Games is set to conclude on Sunday, August 15, 2025. As robotics technology continues to evolve and attract new talent, the global community eagerly anticipates future events that promise to push the boundaries of innovation. This event not only showcases technical prowess but also raises questions about the future roles of automation and robotics in society.
