Photo/Dan Zhongkui (NBD)

On April 14, the mascot unveiling ceremony for the Chengdu 2024 Thomas & Uber Cup took place, showcasing the two adorable mascots, “Xiong Dudu” and “Yu Rongrong,” for the first time.

Yang Shenwei, Director of Chengdu 2024 Thomas & Uber Cup Organizing Committee, emphasized that the Thomas & Uber Cup is the world’s highest-level badminton event. Chengdu 2024 Thomas & Uber Cup marks the first time that China’s western region hosts a world-class badminton tournament. It is also the highest-level badminton event before the Paris Olympics this year. With strong support and guidance from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the Chinese Badminton Association, preparations for the Thomas & Uber Cup are in the final phase, and all aspects of the event are progressing smoothly.

Hu Qian, Executive Director of the Chengdu 2024 Sudirman Cup Organizing Committee, introduced the two mascots:

“Xiong Dudu”: This endearing mascot’s name combines “Xiong” (meaning panda) and the homophonic “Du” （Chengdu）. It represents the Thomas Cup, the men’s world team badminton championship.

“Yu Rongrong”: The cute and lively mascot’s name combines “Yu” (representing badminton) and the homophonic “Rong” （Chengdu）. It symbolizes the Uber Cup, the women’s world team badminton championship.

Both “Xiong Dudu” and “Yu Rongrong” hold feathered badminton rackets adorned with the motif of the sunbird. Their black ears also feature the sunbird pattern, showcasing the charm of ancient Shu culture. “Xiong Dudu” wears a feathered scarf, while “Yu Rongrong” dons a hibiscus flower-shaped collar, cleverly echoing the event’s emblem and highlighting Chengdu’s identity as a vibrant and happy city.

Hu Qian further explained that the mascots’ design integrates elements from the panda’s image with the distinctive characteristics of badminton. Whether it’s their noses, ears, or scarves, these elements reflect the sport’s essence. The introduction of the mascots not only enhances the Sudirman Cup’s brand image but also contributes to Chengdu’s reputation as a premier host city for sporting events.

Chengdu 2024 Thomas & Uber Cup is scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 5, with 32 teams from 20 countries and regions participating.