Heraklion: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Team, backed by Mubadala Investment Company, has achieved remarkable success at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship held in Heraklion, Greece, securing a total of 42 medals. The team’s impressive haul includes 11 gold, 13 silver, and 18 bronze medals, showcasing their prowess on the international stage. The final day of the tournament was particularly fruitful for the UAE’s young athletes in the U18 and U21 categories, who earned eight medals, comprising two gold, four silver, and two bronze.

According to Emirates News Agency, in the U18 boys’ category, Ahmed Andees emerged victorious with a gold medal in the 69kg weight class. His teammate Thani Al Mehairi followed closely, winning a silver medal in the same category. Additionally, Abdulaziz Saud Al Akidi and Ali Al Tunaiji secured bronze medals in the 77kg and 85kg categories, respectively. In the U21 girls’ category, Mariam Al Ali claimed gold in the 45kg class, while Balqees Al Hashmi, Aysha Alshamsi, and Mahra Mahfouz took home
silver medals in their respective weight classes.

Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the athletes’ accomplishments, highlighting the federation’s successful youth development programs. He acknowledged the ongoing support from the UAE’s leadership, which has been instrumental in promoting sports and enhancing performance. Al Shamsi emphasized that the national team’s achievements extend beyond medals, reflecting the federation’s efforts to cultivate a new generation of talented athletes committed to the sport.

Athlete Ahmed Andees expressed his delight in winning the gold medal, describing the experience of competing in an all-Emirati final as a testament to the UAE Jiu-Jitsu leadership’s competitive strength. Similarly, Mariam Al Ali highlighted the significance of her gold medal, noting the presence of multiple Emirati athletes on the podium, which signifies the sport’s growth in the UAE and the support for emerging talent.