Paris, April 28, 2025 — The Europe Today: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, proudly sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, kicked off its campaign at the Grand Prix Paris Open 2025 with a commanding performance, securing a total of six medals—four gold and two silver—on the championship’s opening day.
The prestigious tournament, held in the French capital, features 400 athletes from 30 countries and is set to conclude on Sunday.
Gold medals were clinched by Shamma Al Kalbani (63kg), Omar Ali Alsuwaidi (56kg), Mayed Al Shehhi (62kg), and Mohammed Al Suwaidi (69kg), while Theyab Alnuaimi (56kg) and Khaled Al Shehhi (62kg) secured silver.
Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the athletes’ exceptional performance, crediting the Federation’s strategic training and development programmes.
“These results reflect the athletes’ hard work and commitment. The National Team’s strong performance marks an important step towards upcoming events, particularly the JJAU Regional Championship West Asia in Jordan, the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, and the World Games 2025 in China,” he said.
“I congratulate the athletes who have excelled and outperformed a group of prominent competitors thanks to their determination and discipline. There is still a chance to add more medals on the final day of the championship.”
Helder Medeiros, head coach of the national team, echoed Al Menhali’s sentiments, describing the event as a valuable opportunity to sharpen the team’s competitive edge.
“Championships like the Grand Prix Paris Open provide essential experience, helping our athletes build their competitive edge ahead of major international competitions,” he stated.
Gold medallist Mayed Al Shehhi (62kg) expressed his pride and gratitude following his triumph.
“I’m proud to have won gold and to have raised the UAE flag on the podium. This achievement is the result of the tremendous support from our wise leadership and will motivate me to continue striving for excellence in international competitions,” he said.
The UAE team is expected to continue its strong showing as the Grand Prix Paris Open enters its final day.
