Chengdu: The UAE National Jiu-Jitsu Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, has arrived in China to participate in the 2025 edition of the World Games, which will be hosted in Chengdu from August 7 to 17.
According to Emirates News Agency, the national team previously competed in the 2017 World Games in Wroclaw, Poland, where they won two medals-one gold and one silver. They continued their success at the 2022 edition in Birmingham, USA, securing five medals: two gold, one silver, and two bronze.
World Games Chengdu 2025 is set to gather nearly 5,000 athletes from 118 countries competing across 34 sports, marking it as one of the most significant international sporting events. Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, noted that the team aims to achieve a new milestone, enhancing the UAE's position on both regional and global stages. The current squad comprises experienced athletes who have performed consistently at top levels.
The team has undergone extensive training, both locally and overseas, to ensure they are in peak physical and mental condition. Former champion Faisal Al Ketbi, accompanying the team, expressed confidence in their chances of winning medals, citing their top-ranking status and rigorous preparation, including a training camp in Brazil focused on technique and fitness.
The men's team includes Mohammed Al Suwaidi (69kg), Mehdi Al Awlaki (77kg), and Saeed Al Kubaisi (85kg). The women's team features Asma Alhosani (52kg), Shamsa Al Amri (57kg), and Shamma Al Kalbani (63kg). The UAE team's campaign will commence on August 10, with jiu-jitsu competitions running through August 12.