Post by : Maya Rahman

In a remarkable showing at the 2025 World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, the UAE U16 national team, endorsed by Mubadala Investment Company, has delivered impressive performances. The championship, which runs from November 8 to 14, witnessed these emerging Emirati talents garnering admiration and respect.

After just two days of intense competition, the athletes amassed a total of 11 medals, highlighting the UAE's escalating prowess in youth jiu-jitsu. The event included participation from numerous young competitors worldwide, each eager to display their skills and sportsmanship.

On Saturday, the UAE’s U16 girls’ team secured four additional medals, contributing to the nation’s accolades. They achieved one silver and three bronze medals, underscoring their technical acumen and resilience during matches.

Sara Farook clinched the silver in the 48 kg category following a tough battle in several rounds. Mathail Alhammadi and Ghaiaheb Alrashdi brought home bronzes in the 36 kg, while Maitha Alkarbi added a bronze from the 40 kg division.

This brings the UAE’s total in the U16 category to 11 medals: two gold, three silver, and six bronze, reflecting the athletes' hard work and dedication.

Earlier, the boys’ team set a strong precedent with seven medals on the opening day, paving the way for the girls’ team to build on that momentum.

The success of both teams exemplifies the UAE’s balanced approach to athlete development across genders, showcasing the federation’s commitment to providing equitable opportunities.

Abdulla Al Zaabi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, commended the tremendous achievements of the Emirati girls. He noted that their discipline and self-assurance illustrate the progress of women’s jiu-jitsu in the UAE under the nation’s leadership.

Al Zaabi stated, “This impressive beginning energizes us to keep the momentum in the under-18 and under-21 categories while striving to enhance our medal count further, fortifying the UAE’s reputation among elite jiu-jitsu nations globally.”

Following her success, silver medalist Sara Farook expressed her delight at reaching the championship podium. “Winning silver at the World Championship is a dream realized. The matches were challenging, but with my teammates' and coaches' support, I focused on my performance. I’m honored to represent the UAE and will keep training hard for gold next time.”

Her sentiments resonate with the team's collective determination and the fostering of excellence prioritized by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation among its young athletes.

The commendable outcomes of the UAE team align with a national initiative to promote jiu-jitsu, fostering discipline, resilience, and confidence among youth. The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation is actively investing in training initiatives, global exposure, and top-notch coaching to prepare these young talents for international competitions.

This championship also serves as a testament to the UAE's long-standing commitment to sports diplomacy and empowerment of youth, with each triumph enhancing the country's stature as a global martial arts hub.

The championship will proceed until November 14, with U18 and U21 categories next to compete. The UAE national team remains resolute in their pursuit of additional medals, aiming to further their position as frontrunners in the jiu-jitsu arena.

With their unwavering performances and growing confidence, these young Emiratis are poised to continue their successful streak, inspiring the next wave of athletes in the UAE.

#Sports News