16 years after his last World Games appearance, Chinese veteran wakeboarder Zhang Wei embraced his return in Chengdu as a dream fulfilled, valuing passion over medals.

CHENGDU, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- Despite not qualifying for the men's wakeboard freestyle final on Saturday, Chinese water skier Zhang Wei said he came solely for the thrill of competing on water at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province.

"Just standing on this stage again has already fulfilled a dream for me," the 37-year-old Zhang said.

At The World Games 2009, Zhang competed in men's wakeboard and made it to the final.

"At that time, my knee was injured, so I didn't win a medal and felt somewhat regretful," he said.

Returning to the World Games after 16 years, he prefers not to load himself with too much pressure.

"I just wanted to fully enjoy the competition and taste the passion. I feel like just being here means I've already 'won'."

Zhang's relationship with wakeboard began in 1999 when he was introduced to a coach by his uncle in the sixth grade. Around 2007, he started to make a name for himself on the domestic water-ski circuit and was selected to join the national team.

During his career, he had experienced some big moments of winning medals at international competitions.

Injuries, however, have been the biggest obstacle for him, as he underwent surgery to repair the cruciate ligament in his right knee after the 2009 games.

"During my recovery period, I thought a lot. Part of me turned away from the sport due to the injury and grueling training. The greater fear was that I might never ride the waves again," he admitted.

After 2011, Zhang quit the sport due to injury, but his passion for water skiing had never truly faded.

In recent years, Zhang has made a competitive comeback as an amateur, posting strong results at domestic events that earned him a spot at the Chengdu World Games.

He admitted that it has been difficult for him to return to the competitive level he once reached.

"Now wakeboard is more of a lifestyle for me, a goal in my life that guides me to keep challenging myself and breaking through my limits."

As a veteran among Chinese wakeboard athletes, Zhang is happy to see the rising stars and more enthusiasts participating in the sport.

"Water skiing in China has been developing fast over the years, and there are a lot of talents," Zhang said. "The future is theirs."