Players of AG.AL prepare before the grand final of the Honor of Kings between AG.AL of China and TT Global of China at the 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, July 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Chen)
EWCF COO Mike McCabe told Xinhua that China's esports industry is now among the world's most influential, with top clubs, strong fan engagement and competitive success at the 2025 Esports World Cup.
RIYADH, Aug. 25 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) concluded Sunday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Mike McCabe, chief operating officer of the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), said in a recent interview with Xinhua that China was a key participant in this year's EWC, noting its esports industry has grown into one of the world's most mature and influential ecosystems. He voiced hopes for deeper cooperation.
More than 20 Chinese clubs participated in this year's EWC, with Chinese teams winning championships in titles such as "Honor of Kings" and "Street Fighter 6." Three Chinese clubs - AG.AL, Weibo Gaming and KuaiShou Gaming - ranked among the top 10 in the Club Championship ranking.
McCabe emphasized that Chinese clubs are among the strongest and most recognized in the world, with massive fan bases and a proven competitive pedigree. "They have brought their legendary players to Riyadh, each with world-class skill and huge global followings. This deepens the competitive field and strengthens our connection to one of the most important esports markets globally."
"In addition to competitive excellence, Chinese clubs bring deep fan engagement, cultural storytelling and unmatched dedication," McCabe said. He noted that more than half of the global audience for last year's inaugural EWC came from China. This year, Chinese clubs further expanded their engagement and influence through content creation, social media and fan activities.
Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud (2nd L) , Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation and Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chang Hua (3rd L) talk with team AG.AL in the China-Saudi Esports Culture Theme Pavilion during the 2025 Esports World Cup on July 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Chen)
He also highlighted the core role Chinese gaming and esports companies played in this year's EWC, not only through their games but also in innovation and collaboration, significantly enhancing the EWC's influence in China. Tencent Esports, as EWCF's strategic partner in China, played a key role in this process.
Beyond gaming and esports companies, many Chinese technology firms also participated extensively by providing equipment and technical support, contributing to both tournament operations and the viewing experience.
"Our Chinese partners HONOR, Lenovo and OBSBOT have each brought unique value, whether it's delivering cutting-edge mobile gaming experiences, powering elite competitive play or innovating global broadcasts with AI camera technology.
"The level of collaboration has been outstanding, and it's clear we're building long-term relationships that benefit the entire ecosystem," he added.
During the tournament, the China-Saudi Esports Culture Theme Week, jointly organized by Tencent Esports and EWCF, was held within the Esports World Cup venue from July 24 to Aug. 3, attracting large audiences.
"As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Saudi Arabia, esports is proud to be part of this partnership, connecting cultures, attracting tourism and building bridges through gaming," McCabe noted.
A man experiences a Chinese-made game inside the China-Saudi Esports Culture Theme Pavilion. (Xinhua/Luo Chen)
McCabe also mentioned that this year's EWC saw more exchanges and collaboration with China in culture, tourism and innovative technology, expanding the role of EWC beyond sports to serve as a platform for cultural exchange and innovation.
"We've launched the EWC China Tour, with fan festivals in more than 40 cities, bringing the event directly to millions of passionate Chinese fans. We also welcomed Karry Wang as our official China ambassador, bridging esports with mainstream entertainment and culture," he remarked.
On the development of China's esports industry, McCabe had high praise for its maturity and global influence. He noted that China's esports industry has evolved into one of the most mature and influential ecosystems in the world, with high-caliber clubs, elite talent and a deeply engaged fan base. The domestic scale is unmatched, especially in mobile gaming, and the competitive standard is world-class.
"Looking ahead, we want to expand year-round collaborations: more joint events, co-produced content and talent exchanges that keep the connection alive beyond the EWC season. There's also great potential in areas like women's esports, emerging technologies and mobile-first competition, where China is already setting global benchmarks," McCabe said.
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