publish time

07/10/2023

author name Arab Times

publish time

07/10/2023

Fahad Al-Ajmi with other winners on the podium.

HANGZHOU, China, Oct 7: In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Kuwait's national karate team player, Fahad Al-Ajmi, has clinched a gold medal at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. Competing in the under-67 kg kumite category, Al-Ajmi emerged victorious in the finals, marking his debut in the masters division. His impressive journey to the finals included triumphs in the earlier rounds, culminating in a decisive victory over Jordanian Abdul Rahman Al-Mustafa, who had previously won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

Fahad Al-Ajmi's gold medal win has significantly contributed to Kuwait's overall medal tally, which now stands at ten medals in total, comprising three gold, four silver, and three bronze.

Expressing his joy and gratitude, champion Fahad Al-Ajmi dedicated his historic gold medal to all those who had supported him, including the administrative and technical staff, as well as the passionate sports enthusiasts of Kuwait. Al-Ajmi's victory was particularly meaningful as it marked the first time Kuwait secured a gold medal in karate at this prestigious tournament.

In his remarks, Al-Ajmi shared his elation at winning gold in his inaugural appearance at the Asian Games, highlighting the immense effort he put into the competition to bring happiness to Kuwaiti fans through his achievement. He emphasized his commitment to continuous improvement and representing Kuwait with distinction on the international stage, aspiring to attain further accolades.

In other competition results, jiu-jitsu national team player Muhammad Ali faced elimination in the under-85 kg category, while wrestling national team player Muhammad Abdul Karim exited the 74 kg category following a match against his Tajikistani counterpart, Ivlov Magomet.

Closing out the Asian Games, the Kuwaiti delegation features two final karate competitions. Champions Mohammed Al-Moussawi, Salman Al-Moussawi, and Mohammed Hussein will compete in the kata team events, while Dalal Al-Saeed is set to participate in the under-50 kg kumite category, facing off against Japan's Miho Miyahara in the round of 16.