Iraqi taekwondo prodigy Mahdi Ali wins bronze at Asian junior championship
According to a statement from the National Olympic Committee received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA) today, Monday (July 28, 2025), Ali managed to defeat opponents from Japan and the Philippines. He then delivered a stunning upset by eliminating the reigning Thai world champion in an exciting bout, demonstrating his high skill and ability to compete with top contenders.
Ali's run concluded in the semi-finals, where he narrowly lost to a Turkmenistan national team player after a strong confrontation, thus deservedly clinching the bronze medal.
Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Iraqi Taekwondo Federation, lauded the junior champion's outstanding performance. He affirmed that 'Mahdi Ali is a true champion in the making, possessing exceptional talent and a high fighting spirit.' Abbas further noted that the championship witnessed broad participation from various Asian countries, which significantly enhances the value of the Iraqi athlete's achievement and reflects the evolving standard of the sport in Iraq.
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