Mohammad Yousuf Jahangir secured Afghanistan’s first-ever gold medal at the Islamic Solidarity Games with a standout victory in Muay Thai.
Riyadh | By Sayer Zaland
Mohammad Yousuf Jahangir made history for Afghanistan on Friday after winning the gold medal in the 70 to 75 kilogram division of Muay Thai at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh.
Facing a strong opponent from Turkey in the final, Jahangir maintained composure in a fast-paced contest. Both fighters exchanged sharp combinations early in the bout, but the Afghan athlete pulled ahead in the second and third rounds with cleaner strikes and superior control. The judges ultimately awarded him the win by decision.
“This gold is not mine alone. It belongs to the people of Afghanistan who continue to support their athletes through every difficulty,” Jahangir said after the medal ceremony. “I hope this victory opens the door for more achievements.”
The national team coach praised Jahangir’s performance as “a result of discipline, preparation, and belief,” adding that the win confirms Afghanistan’s potential to compete at elite levels in combat sports.
The gold marks Afghanistan’s first in the history of the Islamic Solidarity Games. The country has participated intermittently in past editions, but Jahangir’s breakthrough is seen as a major milestone that could help strengthen the development of martial arts programs nationwide.
