#China #Hangzhou #Tsinghua University #ANTA Group #Global Sportswear

Tsinghua University and ANTA Group Launch the 3rd Global Sportswear Design Award

On June 14, 2025, the highly anticipated third edition of the Global Sportswear Design Award officially commenced at the China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou. This distinguished initiative is a partnership between ANTA Group and Tsinghua University, setting a new standard for collaboration in the sportswear industry. This year’s theme, “MovEmpower - Motion Beyond Limits,” reflects its commitment to integrate global resources focused on innovation among industry, academia, and research.

A Vision for Innovation

The launch event was graced by notable figures such as Lai Shixian, Executive Director and co-CEO of ANTA Group, and Lu Xiaobo, Director of the Tsinghua University Art Museum and Professor of Humanities. The synergy between ANTA Group and Tsinghua University stands as a model of multidisciplinary cooperation in the sportswear sector, creating a vibrant platform for idea incubation, talent discovery, and industrial transformation.

Lai Shixian emphasized, "At ANTA, innovation is the cornerstone of our growth. We are committed to transitioning from 'Made in China' to 'Created in China,' empowering Chinese brands to thrive on the global stage." Similarly, Lu Xiaobo noted, "Innovative design is a driving force of sports culture and a key element of our national cultural power."

With two successful editions already under its belt, the award has garnered over 4,000 submissions from more than 270 universities across 30 countries and regions, establishing itself as one of the world’s influential incubators for sportswear design.

Expanding Global Reach

The 2025 edition not only enhances its reach but also introduces various competitions across four key domains: technology, culture, nature, and AIGC (Artificial Intelligence Generated Content). The competition will feature seven university roadshows globally, inviting students, independent designers, and design enthusiasts from over 25 countries and regions to participate. The organizers anticipate receiving over 2,500 entries, with prizes totaling several million RMB.

A diverse panel of over 100 experts from academia and the industry will review the submissions. By implementing a robust mechanism involving call for entries, expert reviews, and industrial transformation, the award aims to consolidate innovation resources and contribute to the sustainable development of the sportswear industry.

Nurturing Global Design Talent

ANTAs talent development model, leveraging this competition, has already been successful. Several finalists from previous editions have joined ANTA’s multi-brand design teams. The company is committed to fostering a global platform where young creators can thrive and accelerate innovation in sportswear design.

ANTAs ongoing mission proclaims that “innovation is the engine of the future.” By depending on its international open innovation ecosystem and an integrated university-industry matrix, ANTA seeks to infuse technological vitality and aesthetic inspiration into the sportswear industry.

The competition will unfold from June 2025 to March 2026, featuring global roadshows and submission phases. For further details, prospective candidates and interested parties can visit the official website at design.anta.com/works or follow the Tsinghua University–ANTA Joint Research Center for Sports Fashion on WeChat.

Conclusion

The 3rd Global Sportswear Design Award marks an exciting chapter in the evolution of sports design, encouraging innovative futures in sports fashion through global collaboration and creativity.