Post by : Maya Rahman

The United Arab Emirates’ under-21 Jiu-Jitsu team kicked off their participation at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, with remarkable achievements. Running from November 12 to 14, the championship gathers young competitors globally. Backed by Mubadala Investment Company, the UAE team earned seven medals in total: two gold, three silver, and two bronze, making their nation proud.

The players showcased significant talent and commitment throughout the event. Ammar Al Hosani secured a gold medal in the under-94 kg division, while fellow athlete Rashid Al Shehhi triumphed in the under-56 kg category. Their performance exemplified the extensive training and preparation put in by the team leading up to the tournament.

Three additional Emirati competitors claimed silver medals, with Fahad Al Hammadi taking silver in the under-77 kg category, Rashid Al Hemani in the over-94 kg, and Mohammed Al Shehhi in the under-56 kg. Bronze medals were awarded to Faisal Al Wahidi in the under-69 kg class and Abdulrahman Mohammed in the under-62 kg division.

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, commended the young athletes for their achievements. He noted that these accomplishments highlight the progress made in Jiu-Jitsu across all levels in the UAE. According to him, every win is a testament to teamwork, bolstered by family support, school training, and the guiding vision of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation aiming to create champions.

He emphasized the significance of school Jiu-Jitsu programs, which form a crucial foundation for the sport's advancement in the nation. These initiatives not only enhance athletic skills but also foster discipline, confidence, and focus. Many current champions began their journeys through such programs, developing the necessary tools for international success.

Rashid Al Shehhi, the gold medalist in the under-56 kg category, expressed his pride in advocating for the UAE. He stated that his victory transcended personal achievement, serving as inspiration for other young Emiratis that determination and discipline yield success. He remarked, "Starting Jiu-Jitsu in school revealed to me that it’s more than a sport; it’s a lifestyle that teaches respect, confidence, and teamwork. My family’s unwavering support has motivated me to excel."

The championship will proceed in Bangkok with the under-21 girls’ events on the horizon. The UAE team is optimistic about further successes, aiming to increase their medal tally, and anticipates exhilarating matches that will further illustrate the country’s prowess in the sport.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation remains dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and grooming athletes for significant international competitions. With robust support from Mubadala Investment Company, it offers state-of-the-art training facilities and programs to maximize the athletes’ potential. This ongoing investment signifies a commitment to cultivating a new generation of world-class competitors.

The triumphs in Bangkok illustrate the UAE's strategic intent to elevate Jiu-Jitsu as a national sport and lifestyle. The young competitors have not only displayed incredible skills but have also embodied the true essence of Jiu-Jitsu: discipline and respect.

Securing seven medals, featuring two golds, marks a significant milestone for the UAE on an international level. It underscores the nation's vision of fostering young sports talents and achieving sports excellence through tangible results. The under-21 Jiu-Jitsu team's accomplishments shine bright, setting a precedent for future champions to follow.

#Sports News