Emirati talents secure seven-medal haul on opening day in Bangkok, with Alhosani and Alshehhi clinching top honors in their weight classes.
BANGKOK: The UAE’s next generation of jiu-jitsu champions announced their arrival on the global stage with a dominant performance at the World Youth Championships, collecting a total of seven medals in the under-21 division on Wednesday.
The Emirati squad showcased its depth and talent, returning from the mats with two gold, three silver, and two bronze medals, setting a triumphant tone for the ongoing competition in Thailand.
Podium Finishes Across Weight Classes
The gold medals were claimed by Amaar Alhosani (under-94kg) and Rashed Alshehhi (56kg), who stood atop the podium after a series of commanding performances. They were backed by a strong team effort that saw Fahad Alhammadi (77kg), Rashid Alhimany (over-94kg), and Mohamed Al-Shehhi (56kg) secure silver medals, while Faisal Alwahedi (69kg) and Abdulrahman Mohammed (62kg) powered their way to bronze.
A Testament to National Development Program
Officials were quick to point to the result as validation of the UAE’s long-term investment in the sport. Mubarak Al-Menhali, from the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, stated, “Today’s results show how well the system for developing jiu-jitsu in the UAE is working,” emphasizing the grassroots-to-elite pipeline supported by families, schools, and clubs.
For the athletes, the victory was deeply personal. “Winning today means more than just getting a medal,” said gold medalist Rashed Alshehhi. “It’s a message to all young Emiratis that determination makes the difference.”
With the under-21 women’s division still to come, the UAE delegation looks poised for further success in Bangkok.
