It has been properly publicised by now, that Azerbaijan have waited a painstakingly-long 16 years for one more Olympic gold medal. So it’s sensational that they not solely have fun one however two from the Paris 2024 Olympic Video games. First up was Hidayat HEYDAROV within the -73kg class, whose story has a particular component given the connection to the final Olympic Champion, Elnur MAMMADLI.
The latter took his title in the identical class in Beijing 2008, and it was an emotional win, his life modified in that second and he is aware of the ins and outs of attending to that time. With this wealth of expertise it solely made sense that he make investments his time in his protege and assist him to the head of his profession.
Previous to arriving in Paris, Heydarov had arguably the very best preparation and had been gathering titles likes sweets, however the Olympic Video games holds pressures not like different tournaments, in spite of everything, that is as soon as each 4 years. Heydarov knew this. Mammadli knew this, and that is the way it went…
That day certainly was a big day from the start, as a result of it was the primary Olympic Video games for Hidayat. We had actually robust preparation, and we agreed the purpose along with Hidayat, to turn into European, World and Olympic Champion this yr. Now we will say that we have now achieved our purpose. It was a tough path however on the identical time, an honourable journey.
On the twenty ninth of July, the day of competitors, we awakened early within the morning as at all times. He stated ‘I’ll turn into the Champion’ with dedication in his face. I gave him nice motivation, reminded him that we shouldn’t have any athlete who has gained three titles, European, World and Olympic Video games in a row, I informed him his identify can be written within the historical past of Azerbaijan after finishing this treble.
It appeared that this motivation caught with Heydarov all through his preliminary rounds, seeing out his opponents and making it to the ultimate towards shock of the day; world ranked #35 Joan-Benjamin GABA of France.
Earlier than the ultimate with the French athlete [Gaba] we spoke once more, about the entire yr and we each agreed there isn’t any house inside this story for a silver medal.
Lots of people are behind this achievement who’ve given their assist. Particularly the President of our nation Ilham Aliyev, our Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva, the sports activities ministry, Nationwide Olympic Committee, our Nationwide Federation, medical crew, teaching crew, everyone did their greatest for this excellent consequence. After 16 years within the -73 kg class, in my class, we have now a Champion once more.
For me, it feels as if my Olympic gold medal has been refreshed, however actually, I may even say that the gold medal of Hidayat is extra treasured to me than my very own gold medal as an athlete.
Judoka
Hidayat Heydarov
Creator: Thea Cowen
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