Post by : Maya Rahman

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, proudly backed by Mubadala Investment Company, completed an impressive outing at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, claiming a total of eight medals. This haul included four gold, two silver, and two bronze medals, culminating in their dominant performance on the last day of the competition and securing the top position in jiu-jitsu.

The closing day of the Games featured fierce competition from various respected national teams. However, the UAE athletes showcased their tenacity and preparation. Khaled Al Shehhi kicked off the medal tally with a gold in the 62kg weight class. Shortly after, Shamma Al Kalbani also shone brightly, bringing home a gold in the 63kg category. Asma Al Hosani contributed another gold, competing in the 52kg division, while Mahdi Al Awlaqi achieved silver in the 77kg class.

With this stellar performance, the UAE team topped the Games, finishing ahead of Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia, who took second and third, respectively. A notable feat was that every athlete from the UAE who participated secured a place on the podium, indicating a clean sweep. This accomplishment underscores the rigorous preparation and robust support available to the athletes.

Team officials emphasized that this achievement reflects the high standard of training programs and the cohesiveness between athletes and coaches. Months of diligent practice and thoughtful strategy were key contributors to the UAE’s medal success.

Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, the Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and a prominent figure in multiple international jiu-jitsu organizations, commended the team's extraordinary effort. He noted that the success of Emirati jiu-jitsu is now recognized globally and attributed this growth to the solid foundation laid by the nation’s leadership. He mentioned that the accomplishments seen across the Asian Youth Games, the World Championship in Thailand, and now the Islamic Solidarity Games demonstrate the efficacy of the UAE's teamwork.

He also recognized the crucial roles played by families, clubs, and the federation's partners in bolstering the athletes. Their dedication and discipline, he stated, empower the athletes to represent the UAE with pride and excellence. He expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the technical, medical, and administrative staff, who work tirelessly to support optimal performance.

Head Coach Helder Medeiros voiced his pride in the team’s results, highlighting their recent growth. Their focus, discipline, and competitive spirit have equipped them to perform commendably against seasoned competitors. He remarked that the UAE team has positioned itself strongly at both continental and international levels, especially after their success at the JJIF World Championships in Thailand.

Gold medallist Khaled Al Shehhi stressed the significance of teamwork in attaining success. He regarded his medal not as an individual accolade but as a product of the collective efforts of the entire team. In jiu-jitsu, he explained, no one can progress in isolation. Entering the championship, he felt a profound duty to represent the UAE and to exhibit the hard work invested by the team. The outcomes, he said, reflect their unity and inspire them to maintain the momentum into future competitions.

The UAE team’s success at the Islamic Solidarity Games has once again affirmed their growing prowess in the sport. With a total of eight medals, strong team dynamics, and notable improvements, they have set a remarkable benchmark for future engagements and have significantly enhanced their reputation regionally.

#Sports News