The UAE team concluded its participation in the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Heraklion, Greece, with a total of 42 medals, comprising 11 gold, 13 silver, and 18 bronze medals.
On the final day of the tournament, the UAE's boys and girls excelled in the U18 and U21 categories, securing eight medals, including two gold, four silver, and two bronze medals. In the U18 boys' category, Ahmed Andees clinched the gold medal in the 69kg division, Thani Al Mehairi won the silver in the same weight class, while Abdulaziz Saud Al Akidi and Ali Al Tunaiji earned bronze medals in the 77kg and 85kg divisions, respectively. In the U21 (Girls) category, Mariam Al Ali won gold in the 45kg division, and Balqees Al Hashmi (48kg), Aysha Alshamsi (45kg), and Mahra Mahfouz (70kg) secured silver medals.
Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the outstanding achievements of the athletes at the world championship, emphasizing the Federation's effective youth development and performance enhancement programs, which are supported by the nation's leadership in promoting sports. He noted that the UAE national team gained significant benefits beyond just medals, highlighting the development of a talented group of young athletes who represent the future of the sport with their professionalism and dedication. He stressed that this success reflects the results of hard work and strategic planning, indicating a promising future for jiu-jitsu in the UAE.
Ahmed Andees expressed his delight in winning the gold medal, underscoring the unique experience of an all-Emirati final with his teammate, which showcased the UAE Jiu-Jitsu leadership's competitive strength. Similarly, Mariam Al Ali emphasized the importance of her gold medal, noting the presence of multiple Emirati athletes on the podium in the same weight category, which highlights the growth of jiu-jitsu in the UAE and its support for emerging talent.
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