Die Asienspiele eröffnen mit mehr Athleten als bei den Olympischen Spielen und einigen unbekannten Sportarten.

A traditional swordsmanship exhibition took place in Nagoya on Friday as part of the pre-show activities leading up to the opening ceremony of the Asian Games. Locals showcased their skills in the event, setting the stage for the 16-day competition that begins on Saturday. The exhibition, held at the Nagoya City Stadium, featured participants demonstrating their expertise in the ancient martial art, drawing spectators and media attention. The Asian Games opened on Saturday with a record number of athletes competing in a variety of sports. Over 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions participated, surpassing the number of competitors at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Some of the participating nations include Japan, China, and South Korea, with Japan sending the largest delegation of 933 athletes. The event includes both traditional Olympic sports such as track and field and swimming, as well as unique Asian disciplines like kurash, kabaddi, and sepaktakraw. The opening ceremony featured dignitaries including Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and other high-profile figures. The ceremony, themed "Harmonic Heart Beat," included a traditional parade of athletes with Afghanistan leading the procession and Japan concluding the display. The stage design reflected the theme, shaped like a large heart. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Olympic Council of Asia, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the significance of the event for Asia and the world. Despite the grandeur of the opening, logistical challenges persist. Athletes are housed in a combination of hotels, wooden containers, and a large cruise ship due to the decision not to construct a dedicated athletes' village. Reports indicate some accommodations are cramped, with issues such as leaking structures and limited space. The cost of hosting the games is estimated at $13 billion, though some reports suggest the actual expenditure could be double that amount. Political tensions also emerged prior to the opening. On the day before the official start, an incident occurred during a field hockey match between South Korea and Bangladesh, where the North Korean national anthem was played. South Korean players responded with confusion and concern, highlighting ongoing geopolitical sensitivities. Japanese athletes aim to capitalize on their success from the 2024 Summer Olympics, hoping to secure a strong medal tally at home. The games will continue through October 1, featuring a range of sports and events across Nagoya.