The Paris 2024 Olympics marked a historic milestone for Uzbekistan, as the nation showcased its growing prominence on the global sports stage. For the first time, Uzbekistan sent its largest delegation to the Games, made a notable debut in team sports, and achieved its best-ever Olympic performance.
Historic Milestones for Uzbek Sports
Uzbekistan's delegation was the largest in the nation's history, highlighting its expanding presence in international sports. The U-23 football team qualified for the Olympics by reaching the finals of the Asian Championship, marking the first time Uzbekistan participated in team sports at this level.
Record-Breaking Medal Haul
Uzbekistan secured 13 medals at the Paris Olympics, comprising 8 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze. This impressive tally earned Uzbekistan 13th place overall, surpassing its previous best of 21st place achieved at the Rio 2016 Olympics. This result stands as the nation's best Olympic performance to date.
Boxing Triumphs
The Uzbek boxing team delivered a historic performance, winning five gold medals. This achievement is unprecedented, underscoring Uzbekistan's dominance in the sport. The boxing team, which led in Rio, has further solidified its status as a global powerhouse in the ring.
Pioneering Achievements for Women
Diyora Keldiyorova made history as the first Uzbek woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Her victory, along with Svetlana Osipova's silver in taekwondo, contributed to the best-ever performance by Uzbek female athletes at the Olympics.
Debuts and Milestones in New Sports
Uzbekistan made its debut in diving, archery, and women's wrestling, showcasing the country's expanding sporting capabilities. In football, the U-23 team’s qualification marked a significant achievement in team sports. Bakhodir Jalolov, Hasanboy Dusmatov, and Ulugbek Rashitov each secured their second Olympic gold medal, setting new records for Uzbekistan.
Prominent Rankings
Uzbekistan's 13th-place finish is the highest among CIS, Central Asian, and Turkish countries. Among Asian nations, Uzbekistan ranked fourth, behind China, Japan, and South Korea. The country's performance was a significant achievement, surpassing competitors such as Azerbaijan (2+2+3) and Kazakhstan (1+3+3), with Russia and Belarus not participating in the competition.
Memorable Moments
From the outset, Uzbek athletes captivated the world. Diyora Keldiyorova’s victory over the long-time undefeated Uta Abe in judo was a standout moment. Although the U-23 football team did not advance far, they garnered widespread admiration. Sitora Turdibekova’s match against Lin Yu Ting, who was excluded from the 2023 World Championship, and the announcement of a $50,000 prize for boxers who fought against Iman Khalif and Lin Yu Ting further highlighted Uzbekistan's impact.
Noteworthy Incidents and Celebrations
The Games were also marked by emotional and memorable events. Ulugbek Rashitov, despite an injury, competed in the final and won gold. Judoka Gulnoza Matniyazova, wrestler Sharofiddin Boltaboev, and Greco-Roman wrestler Rustam Assakalov announced their retirements. Two-time Olympic champion Bakhodir Jalolov transitioned to professional boxing. Head coach Tulkin Kilichev suffered a heart attack but received timely medical care from British doctors.
At the Paris Olympics closing ceremony, Ulugbek Rashitov had the honor of serving as the flag bearer for Uzbekistan. As the night of August 11 unfolded, the Games drew to a close, marking the end of a triumphant chapter for the Uzbek delegation.
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