The Masters Games is the world’s largest international multi-sport event, held every four years, welcoming sportspeople of all abilities to compete and celebrate athletic excellence. Founded in 1985, this prestigious event is organized under the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), which is officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Participants in the Masters Games compete for themselves rather than representing nations, fostering community engagement and social cohesion.
The primary goal of the Masters Games is to promote lifelong participation in sports while fostering friendship and understanding among mature athletes from diverse backgrounds. The event is open to individuals aged 30 and older, with competition categories structured in five-year age brackets for individual sports and ten-year increments for team sports. There is no upper age limit, and some competitors have even participated past the age of 100, exemplifying the spirit of active aging and perseverance.
With more than 30 sports available, along with multiple disciplines within each sport, the Masters Games maximizes opportunities for participation. Whether in athletics, swimming, cycling, or other disciplines, competitors of all skill levels can find events that suit their abilities and aspirations.
Beyond the competition, the Masters Games serve as a platform for fostering global connections and promoting healthy lifestyles. Held in attractive destinations across Abu Dhabi and the UAE, the event offers participants the chance to experience new cultures while pursuing their passion for sports.
The Masters Games is more than just an event—it is a celebration of resilience, inclusivity, and the enduring spirit of competition that unites athletes worldwide, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or sports status.