Afghan teen wins historic gold at Asian Wushu championship
Mohammad Taha Eshaqi's landmark victory in Shanghai marks Afghanistan’s first-ever Wushu gold on the Asian stage
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — In a groundbreaking moment for Afghan sports, 17-year-old Mohammad Taha Eshaqi has won Afghanistan’s first-ever gold medal at the Asian Junior and Youth Wushu Championships, making history in a sport long dominated by regional powerhouses.
Competing in the Taolu – Tai Chi Jian category, Eshaqi delivered a flawless performance that impressed judges and stunned spectators, outclassing top athletes from across Asia. His fluid routine and precision in execution earned him the top spot on the podium—an unprecedented achievement for Afghanistan in the martial arts arena.
Eshaqi’s gold wasn’t the only highlight. Earlier in the competition, he also secured a silver medal in the Tai Chi Quan event, further cementing his status as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes.
In the Sanda (combat) division, Afghanistan’s Ahmad Nawid Akbari added to the medal tally with a bronze in the 52kg category after defeating a Turkmen opponent.
The championships, held in Shanghai from July 23 to 30, brought together some of the best junior Wushu athletes from across Asia. Afghanistan’s delegation consisted of five athletes and two federation officials, competing in both Taolu and Sanda disciplines.
With one gold, one silver, and one bronze, the Afghan team concluded the event with a total of three medals—a first in the country’s Wushu history.
Eshaqi’s historic victory carries significance far beyond sport. In a country where opportunities for young athletes remain limited, his achievement has become a powerful symbol of perseverance, pride, and national possibility.
Coaches, fellow athletes, and supporters are already hailing it as a turning point for Afghan martial arts and a source of inspiration for future generations.
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