UAE Claims Historic Jiu-Jitsu Haul at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team has secured three gold medals and two silvers on the opening day of competition at the 20th Asian Games, marking the nation's most successful day in the sport at the continental championship.
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team has delivered a remarkable performance at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, capturing three gold medals and two silvers on the opening day of competition. This exceptional achievement represents the most successful day in the nation’s Asian Games history in terms of medals won in a single sport.
Khaled Al Shehhi claimed gold in the men’s 62kg category, whilst Balqees Abdulla secured the women’s 48kg title and Ahmed Andeez triumphed in the men’s 69kg division. Al Anoud Al Harbi and Omar Al Suwaidi completed the medal haul with silver finishes in the women’s 48kg and men’s 62kg categories respectively.
The strength of the UAE programme was underscored by two all-Emirati finals contested on the opening day. In the men’s 62kg competition, Al Shehhi defeated teammate Al Suwaidi to claim the top honour, demonstrating the exceptional depth within the squad. The women’s 48kg final saw Abdulla prevail against Al Harbi, further illustrating the continued progress of women’s jiu-jitsu in the Emirates.
Distinguished dignitaries attended the medal ceremonies, including Shihab AlFaheem, UAE Ambassador to Japan, alongside Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and head of the national team delegation. The occasion was also graced by senior officials from the international federation.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri remarked on the historic significance of the results: “These results are a historic achievement for UAE sport and reflect the work done ahead of the Games. Our athletes showed great technical ability, fighting spirit and discipline throughout the competition.”
He attributed the success to the vision and guidance of Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohamed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Federations, emphasising the federation’s long-term commitment to athlete development. Al Dhaheri underscored Abu Dhabi’s established position as a global centre for jiu-jitsu excellence.
The performance reinforces the UAE’s standing among Asia’s premier jiu-jitsu nations and reflects years of sustained investment in the sport. Competition continues on Friday, with the final events scheduled for Saturday, 3rd October, as the UAE squad pursues additional medals to enhance its Asian Games tally.
Source: WAM