Azerbaijani Judoka Wins Olympics Gold in Paris

Azerbaijani judoka Hidayat Heydarov secured the gold medal in the under 73 kg category at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

In the final match on Monday, he triumphed over French athlete Joan-Benjamin Gaba, climbing the top spot on the winners' podium.

This victory marks the first Olympic medal for Azerbaijan at the 2024 Games and adds to the 27-year-old judoka's impressive collection, which already includes titles from European and world championships.

"I dedicate this victory to the people of Azerbaijan. Thank you for their support throughout my Olympics journey," Hidayat said to the media.

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva personally called to congratulate the champion judoka on his remarkable achievement.

Hidayat expressed his gratitude for their congratulations and shared his pride in seeing the Azerbaijani flag raised and the national anthem played at the Olympics. He reaffirmed his commitment to striving for further success.

Youth and Sports Minister Farid Gayibov and Azerbaijan Judo Federation President Rashad Nabiyev also extended their congratulations to the Olympic champion.

Hidayat's victory in Paris is his third gold medal this year. In April, he won the European championship in Croatia, becoming a four-time continental champion. In May, he claimed the world champion title in the UAE.

Following his Olympic triumph, Hidayat retained his position as the top-ranked judoka in the International Judo Federation’s world ranking for senior men in the under 73 kg category.