The 20-year-old national team wrestler continues preparations for international events despite training under limited conditions.
Kabul| By Sara Amiri
Seyed Omar Zazi, a member of Afghanistan’s national wrestling team, is continuing preparations for upcoming overseas competitions while training in conditions that fall short of international standards.
Zazi, 20, has been involved in wrestling for the past seven years and has built a strong domestic record during that time. He has been part of the national team for three years and has regularly finished among the top competitors in his weight category at national championships.
Despite the lack of proper training facilities and limited access to modern equipment, Zazi trains daily under the supervision of his coaches, focusing on improving his technical performance and physical readiness for international competition.
Coaches describe him as a disciplined and technically capable athlete with the potential to progress further if consistent support is provided.
Zazi recently represented Afghanistan at the 9th Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia, competing in the 57kg weight category. He delivered competitive performances and defeated opponents from Turkey and Guinea, but ultimately missed out on a medal, finishing fifth. Team officials cited limited international experience as a key factor in the outcome.
The young wrestler says sustained institutional and private-sector support would significantly improve his chances of achieving stronger results abroad.
Sports figures and fellow wrestlers have also called for greater backing of emerging athletes like Zazi, noting that talent development remains closely tied to access to proper facilities, coaching continuity, and international exposure.