Humanoid Robot Breaks Usain Bolt’s Record at World Humanoid Robot Games

On Saturday, during the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, China, a humanoid robot surpassed Usain Bolt’s 100-meter sprint record. The robot, developed by Beijing-based X-Humanoid, completed the 100 meters in 9.39 seconds. This time beats Bolt’s 2009 record of 9.58 seconds.

Footage from the event showed the robots finishing the race by crashing into cushions and falling to the ground. They were then carried out on stretchers. The race was part of the opening ceremony at the World Humanoid Robot Games, which featured over 2,000 humanoid robots competing in various sports, including table tennis and soccer.

Another remarkable achievement at the event was a different robot from the same company breaking the standing high jump record. This robot jumped 2.88 meters, surpassing Cuba’s Javier Sotomayor’s 1993 record of 2.45 meters. Despite these achievements, not all robots were successful. Some competitors tripped, fell, or caught fire.

This event, now in its second year, showcases China’s rapid progress in robotics technology. During the opening ceremony, numerous humanoid robots displayed synchronized movements in formation.

“This represents a significant milestone in robotic sports and China’s technological advancements,” said an event organizer.

Meanwhile, last month, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission issued a ban on imports of new foreign-made humanoid robots. This move, targeting China, cited national security concerns. The Pentagon also listed Unitree, a leading Chinese humanoid robot manufacturer, as having connections with the Chinese military. China’s government has denied these allegations.

China leads in humanoid robot production. Some manufacturers report thousands of orders from government and private entities. However, experts note that the technology is primarily for demonstrations and performances, with mass deployment still in progress.