UAE's Aram Grigorian Showcases Judo Prowess At Paris 2024 Olympics

Aram Grigorian, a member of the UAE's national judo team, showcased an impressive performance at the 33rd Summer Olympics in Paris. The event took place from 26th July to 11th August. Grigorian nearly reached the semi-finals but was defeated by Japan’s Murau Sanchiro in the under-90 kg quarterfinals after strong showings in his initial matches.

Grigorian's Olympic journey began with a match against Uzbekistan’s Bobonov Davlat in the under-90 kg category round of 32, which included 50 competitors. He then triumphed over Sweden’s Marcus Nyman, a bronze medalist from the Doha 2023 World Judo Championships, in the round of 16 by ippon.

Nasser Khalifa Al Budoor, Vice Chairman of the Judo Federation, highlighted the significance of six UAE judo players qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics across various weight categories for both genders. He stated, "The qualification of six UAE judo players to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics across various weight categories for both genders is an achievement for UAE judo."

This marks the fifth consecutive participation of UAE judo in this global sporting event. Al Budoor attributed this success to the efforts of the National Olympic Committee under H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. He noted that these efforts aim to elevate UAE sports on an international level.

Al Budoor also mentioned that direct qualification within the International Judo Federation’s global ranking is a significant accomplishment. This milestone adds to the federation’s record as it recently celebrated its silver jubilee and 25 years since its founding. Mohammed bin Thaloub Al Derai, ambassador of the International Judo Federation for friendship, peace, and humanity, has been a key figure in this journey.

He further elaborated on how Abu Dhabi has become a global capital for judo through positive sports results at all levels and hosting major regional and international events. The federation's successful external participations have also contributed to raising the UAE flag high.

The Judo Federation is set to transition to its new headquarters in Baniyas East after completing all organisational arrangements. This project represents modern infrastructure for sports facilities in the country, thanks to leadership support for youth and sports sectors.

The continuous technical and administrative successes have led to extraordinary achievements for UAE judo. These efforts have made Abu Dhabi a prominent hub for judo through consistent positive results and successful hosting of significant events.

The leadership's ongoing support ensures that all requirements for creativity and excellence in youth and sports are met. This commitment has been instrumental in achieving these milestones.

The conclusion wraps up by acknowledging that these achievements reflect not only individual talent but also collective efforts from various supporting bodies within UAE sports administration.

With inputs from WAM