Ankara, February 9 – Turkish national wrestler Rıza Kayaalp has made a triumphant return to the wrestling mat, securing a gold medal at the UWW 1st Ranking Series Zagreb Open in Croatia. Kayaalp, competing in the Greco-Roman style 130 kg category, showcased his dominance throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive victory in the final.
Kayaalp’s Dominant Performance in Zagreb
The European and World champion, and Olympic silver medalist, Rıza Kayaalp, began his campaign at the UWW 1st Ranking Series Zagreb Open with a strong showing. In the first round, he defeated American Aden Hammar Attao with a technical superiority of 9-0, demonstrating his exceptional skill and control from the outset.
His impressive performance continued into the quarterfinals, where he once again secured a 9-0 technical superiority victory against Georgian Rati Tlikishvili. This consistent display of power and technique propelled him into the semifinals, where he faced Kazakhstan’s Olzhas Syrlybay. Kayaalp emerged victorious with a 4-0 win, solidifying his place in the final match.
The Road to Gold: A Resounding Victory
In the final bout, Rıza Kayaalp met American Cohlton Michael Schultz. In a compelling match, Kayaalp defeated his opponent 7-1, earning him the coveted gold medal. This victory is particularly significant as it marks Kayaalp’s return to competitive wrestling after a prolonged absence due to an injury that required him to use painkillers. His immediate success in this prestigious tournament underscores his resilience and unwavering commitment to the sport.
Kayaalp’s performance in Zagreb is a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to overcome adversity. His return to the top of the podium bodes well for his future endeavors and for Turkish wrestling on the international stage.
Impact of Kayaalp’s Return
Rıza Kayaalp’s gold medal win is not only a personal triumph but also a significant boost for Turkish sports. His return to form and immediate success will undoubtedly inspire aspiring wrestlers and strengthen Turkey’s position in international wrestling competitions. The national team will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for future tournaments and championships.
This victory reaffirms Kayaalp’s status as one of the world’s elite Greco-Roman wrestlers and serves as a strong indicator of his potential for continued success in the coming years.
Source: DHA
