GENEVA, May 19 (Xinhua) -- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday marked the first World Fair Play Day, highlighting the values of fair play and sportsmanship. The day will be celebrated annually on May 19, following its official designation by the United Nations General Assembly in July 2024.

"Since the Olympic Games Antwerp 1920, athletes have sworn an oath at the opening ceremony to compete 'in the true spirit of sportsmanship.' This commitment has guided generations of Olympians in how they approach both victory and defeat. Throughout Olympic history, athletes have demonstrated that fair play is not just a value - it's a commitment to the Olympic spirit," IOC wrote in a statement on Monday.

IOC President Thomas Bach said, "Fair play is at the heart of our Olympic mission. When Pierre de Coubertin founded the IOC, he saw fair play as fundamental to all sports; fair play is therefore one of our most cherished Olympic values. The establishment of World Fair Play Day, now officially recognised by the United Nations, is a testament to our commitment to our Olympic mission."

Fair Play Awards have been presented by the IOC, in collaboration with the International Fair Play Committee, to athletes, coaches and officials who demonstrate outstanding acts of sportsmanship during the Olympic Games.

Related Story

• China's Sheng Lihao wins 2nd Paris Olympic gold with men's 10m air rifle victory(08-29 19:31)
• Olympics | Day 13: Chinese diver defends Olympic title, weightlifting debutant claims gold(08-09 16:50)
• Olympics | Chinese weightlifters Hou, Li retain gold at Paris 2024(08-08 14:26)
• Olympics | Day 12: Chinese weightlifters retain Olympic golds, artistic swimming team make history(08-08 14:23)
• Olympics | Chinese diver Quan defends women's 10m platform title at Paris Games(08-07 22:37)