UAE's Grigorian shines in Judo at Paris Olympics

Aram Grigorian, a member of the UAE's national judo team, delivered a remarkable performance in his participation in the 33rd Summer Olympics in Paris.

Grigorian nearly reached the semi-finals in the under-90 kg category but was defeated by Japan’s Murau Sanchiro in the quarterfinals. 

Grigorian began his Olympic journey by competing against Uzbekistan’s Bobonov Davlat in the round of 32, which included 50 competitors. He advanced by defeating Sweden’s Marcus Nyman, a bronze medalist from the Doha 2023 World Judo Championships, in the round of 16 by ippon.

Nasser Khalifa Al Budoor, Vice Chairman of the Judo Federation, said, “The qualification of six UAE judo players to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics across various weight categories for both genders is an achievement for UAE judo. This marks the fifth consecutive participation of UAE judo in this global sporting event, reflecting the efforts of the National Olympic Committee under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, all members of the committee, and the support and follow-up of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. This effort aims to elevate the UAE sports flag, which enjoys the support and attention of the leadership that continually provides all the requirements for creativity and excellence in youth and sports."

The direct qualification of UAE judo champions through the International Judo Federation’s global ranking is a notable achievement, adding to the federation’s 25-year legacy under Mohammed bin Thaloub Al Derai.

UAE judo's successes have established Abu Dhabi as a global judo hub. The federation is also moving to a new, state-of-the-art headquarters in Baniyas East, reflecting ongoing support from the leadership for modern sports infrastructure and youth development.