UAE jiu-jitsu team raises tally to six medals at Asian Beach Games

SANYA: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team concluded its participation at the 6th Asian Beach Games, held in Sanya, China, by raising its total to six medals, including two gold, two silver and two bronze.

The results of the second day, which featured competitions in the men’s 69 kg and 77 kg divisions, and the women’s 57 kg category, continued the UAE team’s consistent performances from the first day of action. Mahdi Al-Awlaqi secured a silver medal in the 77 kg category, while Shamsa Al-Ameri claimed bronze in the women’s 57 kg division.

Fahad Ali Al-Shamsi, secretary general of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the team’s achievement and congratulated the athletes, as well as the technical and administrative staff, on their performance.

“This achievement is a direct result of long-term investment in athlete development, based on expanding the participation base, enhancing performance standards and strengthening the ability to handle pressure in major competitions,” he said. “Maintaining this level requires continued work through a sustainable approach focused on preparing a generation capable of consistent performance and representing the nation in the best possible way.”

The UAE’s Brazilian coach, Gabriel Alves, highlighted the tactical intensity of the second day’s matches, noting the closely matched levels of competition, which required careful management of match details, particularly during transitions and ground control phases.

“The athletes delivered strong performances despite the intensity of competition at this level. Mehdi Al-Awlaqi and Shamsa Al-Ameri were able to convert that into two well-earned medals. During preparation, we focused on improving positioning and controlling the pace, which was