When Diego García first competed at The World Games in Birmingham in 2022, he left with a ninth-place finish in the Single Men event — a respectable result for a debut, but far from the podium. Three years later in Chengdu, China, the Argentine racquetball player returned a transformed athlete, claiming two silver medals to cement his place among the finest competitors his sport has to offer.
García took silver in both the Single Men and Double Mixed (with Maria Jose Vargas) events at The World Games Chengdu 2025 and completed a remarkable summer on the international stage. It is a performance that has earned him a place in the IWGA's Heroes of the Games series — a programme that celebrates the athletes who define the spirit of The World Games.
Reflecting on the moment he stood on the podium, García described emotions that went far beyond personal achievement.
"I felt incredibly happy and proud — not only for myself, but also for my entire team, my family, and my country," he said.
"Standing on the podium represented much more than medals. It was confirmation that all the work done over so many years had been worth it."
The road to Chengdu was not without its challenges. García was simultaneously preparing for his university graduation defence while maintaining the training load required to compete at the highest level. He credits the support of those around him for making both goals possible.
"My team, my family, my partner, and my friends were there every step of the way," he said.
"Thanks to that support I was able to achieve both goals successfully."
Beyond the competition itself, García spoke warmly about the unique atmosphere that sets The World Games apart from other international championships. Sharing a venue and experiences with athletes from dozens of different disciplines — including a visit to a panda centre where competitors from across the world exchanged stories — left a deep impression.
"That combination of sport, culture, and international coexistence is what makes The World Games unlike any other championship," he said.
With his sights already set on The World Games 2029 in Karlsruhe, Germany, García is clear about what drives him.
"Grabbing the silver medal at stake was something very special, but it also left me hungry to keep growing as an athlete," he said.
"My goal is to compete at The World Games again and, this time, to fight for a gold medal for Argentina." — though for those who watched him in Chengdu, it is safe to say he already has.