Latest news with #WorldTaekwondo
Observer
17 hours ago
- Sport
- Observer
Dawood clinches gold at 2025 Asian taekwondo
Muscat, July 29 Oman's national taekwondo team member Dawood bin Fahd al Yousfi clinched a gold medal in the under-45 kg category at the 2025 Asian Taekwondo Championship, currently being held in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, under the supervision of the Asian Taekwondo Union and World Taekwondo. With this medal, the national team's tally rises to two medals the first being a bronze earned by Qaboos al Balushi. The championship brought together over 1,300 athletes from 44 countries, including 406 juniors from 36 nations. Al Yousfi's gold marks another historic achievement for Omani sports. Al Yousfi showcased his dominance in this category, delivering exceptional performances in all rounds of the championship. His balanced offensive approach and strong defense enabled him to advance confidently to the final match, where he sealed victory and ascended the podium to claim gold. Commenting on the achievement, national coach Fahd al Yousfi emphasised that the Asian Taekwondo Championship is one of the toughest in the world, noting that most world champions come from Asia. This makes competition at this championship extremely challenging and demands top-tier preparation. He added that the Omani team delivered an honourable performance, particularly in the youth category, which demonstrated great discipline and commitment throughout the tournament. Qaboos al Balushi earned a bronze medal, while Dawood al Yousfi excelled in the juniors' category to claim gold -- an accomplishment that reflects the results of thorough preparation. Regarding preparations before the championship, Al Yousfi explained that the training for Dawood al Yousfi in the juniors' category was of the highest level. The team held two weeks of internal training camps, followed by two external camps two weeks in South Korea and four days in Thailand. This comprehensive programme was designed to reach peak performance before the championship. He noted that the readiness level before the competition was at its highest, saying We were confident in our players' ability to deliver strong performances, as they entered the championship in top technical, physical, and mental condition. FIERCE COMPETITION Speaking about the level of competition, Al Yousfi said the competition was extremely fierce, as the championship brings together some of the strongest athletes in the world, including world champions and Olympic medalists. Any lapse in focus could knock a player out of the first round. He added that Dawood al Yousfi delivered an impressive performance that amazed everyone. He managed his bouts intelligently, maintained composure under pressure, and capitalised on his opponents' weaknesses. Qaboos al Balushi also displayed great fighting spirit despite the strength of his opponents, reaching the semifinals and earning bronze. Regarding how players deal with pressure, Al Yousfi explained as a coaching staff, we make sure to ease players' anxiety and stress before matches through mental preparation and motivation, because mental readiness is the key to strong performance in tournaments like this. Al Yousfi concluded by affirming that the future of taekwondo in Oman is bright. "We have promising talents that require care and continuous follow-up. Thanks to the strong support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the Oman Olympic Committee and the Oman Taekwondo Committee, we are confident that these achievements will continue and multiply in future competitions."
Gulf Today
12-05-2025
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Crown Prince of Fujairah attends opening of World Taekwondo Cadet Championships
Under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the 7th edition of the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships commenced on Saturday in Fujairah. The five-day event began with a grand opening ceremony at the Zayed Sports Complex in Fujairah. Sheikh Mohammed attended the opening ceremony and emphasised that Fujairah's hosting of international championships reflects the trust that global sports community places in the UAE and particularly Fujairah due to its advanced infrastructure and qualified organisational teams. Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that hosting such events allows Fujairah to attract major competitions, strengthening its position as an international sports hub. He also highlighted the continued support and commitment of Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, in promoting the sports sector, which he views as a crucial pillar for achieving ongoing excellence in various international arenas. Sheikh Dr Rashid Bin Hamad Al-Sharqi, Chairman of the Fujairah Authority for Culture and Information, Dr Choue Chung-won, President of the World Taekwondo Federation, along with members of the Federation's Executive Board, joined Sheikh Mohammed at the opening ceremony. During the opening ceremony, Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025, President of the UAE Taekwondo Federation and a member of the World Taekwondo, said, 'This championship is driven by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi along with the visionary guidance of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi. This championship marks a significant milestone, featuring participation from 93 countries and a total of 811 athletes, both male and female. Fujairah is honoured to host this prestigious taekwondo event, and we extend our gratitude to World Taekwondo, the Ministry of Sports, and all of our valued partners for their unwavering support, which has been essential in making this championship a success.' For his part, Dr Choue Chung-won noted that this is the largest cadet championship to date, highlighting the importance placed by Member National Associations (MNAs) on youth development. He expressed gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, for his support in organising this record-setting event and for his extensive contributions to refugees and displaced persons globally. Dr Chung-won further emphasised that this support enables World Taekwondo to field a refugee team, bringing joy to children and youths in refugee camps. He pointed out that cadet athletes are the foundation of taekwondo, and many competitors from past World Taekwondo Cadet Championships have gone on to become Olympic champions, world champions, and medalists. The opening ceremony featured oath-taking of athletes, referees, and coaches, as well as a flag parade and cultural performances that showcased Emirati heritage. A highlight of the ceremony was a performance by the World Taekwondo demonstration team. The sponsors, e& and the Fujairah Investment Company, along with partners such as the Ministry of Sports and the Fujairah Police General Headquarters, were also recognised during the event. The seventh edition of the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships will continue until May 14 at the Zayed Sports Complex in Fujairah. Meanwhile, the World Taekwondo Council met prior to the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships in Fujairah, and elected a series of future hosts to establish an extensive competition calendar through to 2027. World Taekwondo Grand Prix hosts were decided for 2026 and 2027, providing important opportunities for athletes as part of the qualifying process for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Next year's World Taekwondo Grand Prix will feature events in Rome, Italy (Grand Prix 1); Muju, Korea (Grand Prix 2); and Paris, France (Grand Prix 3) before the Grand Prix Final and World Taekwondo Gala Awards in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Gulf Today
10-05-2025
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Stage set for Fujairah 2025 World Taekwondo Cadet Championships
More than 800 young athletes from around the world are set to compete in the Middle East's first-ever World Taekwondo Cadet Championships, which will be held in Fujairah from Saturday until May 14. The landmark event will be under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, featuring participation from over 811 athletes representing 93 countries. Since its inaugural edition in 2014, the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships has served as a vital platform for athletes aged 12 to 14 to gain experience at a major international event, hone their skills, and compete for prestigious titles on the global stage. Often considered the launching pad for future taekwondo stars, the 2025 edition in Fujairah is poised to be the largest and most significant since the first championship was held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The details of the region's first World Taekwondo Cadet Championships were disclosed in a press conference held at the Al Bahar Hotel and Resort in Fujairah on Thursday. Hosted by the Fujairah Martial Arts Club under the auspices of the UAE Taekwondo Federation, the championships will take place at the Zayed Sports Complex. The higher organising committee of the championships emphasised their full commitment to international standards set by World Taekwondo to ensure a world-class event that reflects the highest levels of professionalism and excellence. Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, President of the UAE Taekwondo Federation, member of World Taekwondo, and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, affirmed that hosting the championship in Fujairah aligns with the vision of the Crown Prince to elevate the emirate's status as a global sports destination. He noted that all preparations are proceeding according to the highest standards to deliver an exceptional event that honours the UAE's reputation. He added, 'We are proud of this achievement and will work with all partners to ensure the event's success in every aspect.' This year's event has drawn an impressive 807 athletes and 467 officials from 89 Member National Associations, along with participants from the World Taekwondo Refugee Team, Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN), and athletes competing under the World Taekwondo flag. Dr. Chungwon Choue, President of World Taekwondo, expressed his delight in selecting Fujairah to host this prestigious global event. He praised the UAE's advanced infrastructure and unwavering support for sports, which makes it an ideal destination for major international tournaments. He also noted that the Fujairah World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 is the largest of its kind globally in terms of participation, with over 800 male and female athletes, and highlighted the notable presence of the Refugee Team, which gives the event a humanitarian dimension that transcends competition. Dr. Choue highlighted that this championship serves as a crucial platform for unearthing young talent and elevating taekwondo's global stature by bringing together diverse cultures through the power of sport. The Fujairah 2025 World Taekwondo Cadet Championships will include competitions in 10 weight categories for both boys and girls. Male athletes will compete in divisions ranging from under 33kg to over 65kg, while female athletes will compete in divisions from under 29kg to over 59kg. Nader Abu Shawish, Tournament Director, stated: 'We are immensely proud to host this prestigious event, which represents a significant milestone for both our local sporting community and the wider taekwondo world. 'This championship offers a rare and invaluable opportunity for our young Emirati athletes to test their skills against some of the best competitors from around the globe, helping to elevate their performance and inspire their growth. 'Beyond the competition, our goal is to provide all participants with a truly exceptional sporting experience—one that reflects the UAE's deep commitment to youth development and sporting excellence. This event is also a powerful platform to showcase the incredible talent and potential of our young athletes and to reinforce the UAE's status as a leading destination for world-class sports events,' he added.
Arabian Business
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Arabian Business
Fujairah to host World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 with record global participation
Under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the emirate is set to host the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 from May 10–14 2025 at the Zayed Sports Complex. The event, announced during a press conference in Fujairah, will welcome a record 811 athletes aged between 12 and 14, representing 93 countries. The championships will span ten weight divisions for both boys and girls, ranging from under 33kg to over 65kg for boys, and under 29kg to over 59kg for girls. The event will also feature the World Taekwondo Refugee Team, Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN), and participants competing under the World Taekwondo flag. Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee and President of the UAE Taekwondo Federation, said the event reflects the vision of the Crown Prince to position Fujairah as a global sporting destination. 'We are proud of this achievement and will work closely with all our partners to ensure the success of the championship in every aspect,' Al Zeyoudi said. Dr. Choue Chung-won, President of World Taekwondo, praised Fujairah's readiness to host the largest cadet event of its kind, citing the UAE's world-class infrastructure and strong institutional support for sports. 'The World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 in Fujairah is the largest of its kind globally, featuring more than 800 athletes. The inclusion of a refugee team brings a humanitarian dimension, conveying a noble message that transcends competitive boundaries,' he said. Nader Abu Shawish, Event Director, added that, 'The Higher Organising Committee is proud to play a central role in hosting this event. We believe it will significantly contribute to the development of our local players by providing them the opportunity to compete with future world champions. Our aim is to offer a unique sporting experience for all our guests and showcase the young talent within the UAE'.
Jordan Times
30-04-2025
- Sport
- Jordan Times
Prince Feisal receives delegation of ‘Hope and Dreams' Festival
HRH Prince Feisal, president of the Jordan Olympic Committee and a member of the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee, on Tuesday receives a delegation of the 'Hope and Dreams' Festival (Petra photo) AMMAN — HRH Prince Feisal, president of the Jordan Olympic Committee and a member of the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee, on Tuesday received a delegation of the 'Hope and Dreams' Festival. The delegation was headed by President of World Taekwondo Chungwon Choue, and included President of the International University Sports Federation Leonz Eder and President of the World Baseball Softball Confederation Dale McMann, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. Prince Feisal welcomed the visiting delegation and expressed his appreciation for the festival, which aims to promote the importance of sports in the lives of youth in refugee camps. Prince Feisal highlighted the 'significant' role played by the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation in using sport as a tool for community development and increasing hope among refugees. The third edition of the 'Hope and Dreams' sports festival will kick off in Jordan on Wednesday, and run through Saturday. The 2025 edition is expected to be the largest yet, offering athletes from refugee camps the opportunity to compete in six different sports. Choue noted the 'remarkable' progress the festival has seen each year, saying: 'The Hope and Dreams Festival has become one of the most important annual events for World Taekwondo and the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation. We are proud to see it grow into a multi-sport event that inspires refugees and youth.' For the first time, this year's festival will include handball, in addition to last year's featured sports of taekwondo, basketball, baseball, badminton, and 3x3 basketball.
