Zelimkhan Abakarov celebrating his gold medal victory
Albania has won its first medal at the Mediterranean Games "Oran 2022" in Algeria, thanks to wrestler Zelimkhan Abakarov in the 65kg freestyle category.
In the final, Abakarov delivered a dominant performance against Egyptian wrestler Yehia Hafez, winning 11–0 and securing the gold medal.
Abakarov during the final match
This victory marks a historic achievement for Albania at Oran 2022 and highlights the strength of its wrestling program.
Originally from Chechnya, Abakarov was recruited by the Albanian Wrestling Federation and later became an Albanian citizen to compete internationally.
Kosovo also celebrated success, as judoka Distria Krasniqi won gold in judo at the same Games.
Distria Krasniqi after winning gold in judo
Her victory added another gold medal for the region and completed a successful campaign at the Mediterranean Games.