The World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing showcased remarkable advancements in robotics on its first day. A Beijing-based X-Humanoid robot, named Lightning Bolt, surpassed Jamaican Usain Bolt’s 100-meter dash record of 9.58 seconds, set in 2009, with a time of 9.39 seconds. Another attempt saw a Chinese smartphone company’s humanoid complete a 100-meter sprint in 9.32 seconds at 14.5 meters per second.

These robots, after completing their sprints, were taken off on stretchers due to running into walls, unlike Usain Bolt, who celebrated his record with a lap. This marks a significant achievement for humanoid robots, exhibiting their capability in a sport traditionally dominated by humans.

The World Humanoid Robot Games, now in its second year, feature over 2,000 robots competing in 51 events across five days.

Taking place at the National Speed Skating Oval, a venue from the 2022 Winter Olympics, the event coincides with the World Robot Conference in Beijing. This emphasizes China’s progress in robotics amid increasing competition with the U.S.

In another impressive feat, a humanoid robot achieved a standing high jump of 2.88 meters, surpassing both last year’s robots and the human high jump record of 2.45 meters by Cuba’s Javier Sotomayor in 1993. Spectators expressed amazement at the robots’ rapid advancements.

Li Yanfeng, a Beijing resident, initially hesitant about AI, observed, “Robots are evolving rapidly.” Another spectator, Yang Shangzheng, noted, “Robots can now do human sports, which is amazing.”

The event also hosted participants from 16 countries, including Germany, Japan, and the U.S., featuring events like weightlifting and tug of war. The U.S. is scrutinizing Chinese robots due to concerns over national security.

Former President Trump’s FCC ordered a ban on importing new foreign-made humanoid robots, citing national security risks. FCC Chair Brendan Carr praised the action, aiming to secure America’s supply chains.