UAE badminton player wins first Youth Olympics gold medal
Riyan Malhan defeats France's Mady Sow to secure a historic first gold for the UAE at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.
At a glance
- Malhan's gold is the UAE's first medal at a Youth Olympic Games
- The final score was 21-17, 21-18 against France's Mady Sow
- Malhan hugged his opponent immediately after winning, drawing praise for sportsmanship
Riyan Malhan won the UAE's first-ever gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games, triumphing in the boys' badminton singles final in Dakar on Thursday. Malhan defeated France's Mady Sow 21-17, 21-18 in a closely contested match.
Following his victory, Malhan embraced his opponent across the net in a gesture of sportsmanship. The official Olympics account highlighted the moment, describing it as "a beautiful act of respect and fair play." Sow secured the silver medal.
Why it matters
The victory marks a significant milestone for UAE sport at the Youth Olympic Games, the international competition for athletes aged 15 to 18.
Original reporting
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