Azerbaijani anthem echoes in Paris as judokas grab gold

Vice-president of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation and 2008 Olympic champion, Elnur Mammadli, expressed his pride and joy upon returning to Heydar Aliyev International Airport from Paris, where Azerbaijani judokas achieved remarkable success at the 33rd Summer Olympics.

Azerbaijani judokas won two gold medals, marking a historic moment for the nation, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

"We are proud that we forced the French to listen to our anthem standing up, to watch our flag being raised in Paris. This is a great achievement. For the first time in history, two Azerbaijani judokas won gold medals at the Olympics. The Ministry of Youth and Sports, Judo Federation, coaches, and doctors are behind this success. We all worked together to achieve this success," Mammadli told reporters.

The triumphant judokas, Khidayev Heydarov and Zelim Kotsoyev, who won gold medals in their respective categories, returned home today along with other members of the national team. Their victories have brought immense pride and joy to Azerbaijan, showcasing the nation's strength and determination on the international stage.