Another Azerbaijani athlete living abroad has made headlines with a remarkable achievement. Rizvan Talibov, who represents Ukraine, recently won a bronze medal at the European Karate Championships.
Born in Chernivtsi, Ukraine, Rizvan is originally from Karabakh—his father hails from Novruzlu village in Aghdam, and his mother is from Aghdam city. Speaking to AZERTAC, Rizvan shared his thoughts on his journey, achievements, and future goals, Idman.biz reports.
– How did your interest in karate begin?
– Thank you for showing such attention to Azerbaijanis living abroad. My passion for sports—and especially karate—began in childhood. It wasn’t random. With Azerbaijani blood running through my veins, it’s no surprise that I was drawn to this sport. Azerbaijan has produced many internationally renowned karatekas, which also inspired me.
– Who has supported you the most in your sporting career?
– First and foremost, it was my parents who supported me. Their role in my achievements has been immense.
– Tell us about your accomplishments so far.
– Until 2020, I trained in Chernivtsi. For the past three years, I’ve been training intensively in Kyiv. I hold the title of International Master of Sport in Ukraine. In 2023, I became the European champion in karate. From 2017 to 2022, I won the national championship in Ukraine multiple times.
– What is your main goal as an athlete?
– One of my biggest goals is to win an Olympic medal. I’m training tirelessly to achieve that. I believe in myself, and I have the energy and determination to reach my dream.
– You’re originally from Aghdam. Now that Aghdam and many other regions of Azerbaijan have been liberated and are being rebuilt, how does that make you feel?
– It’s an incredibly proud moment—especially for Azerbaijanis living abroad. We now feel even happier and more fulfilled. In every competition, I represent not only Ukraine but also Azerbaijan in my heart. I hope to visit beautiful Aghdam soon and see its transformation with my own eyes. I dream of setting foot in my homeland again. Azerbaijan will always be my motherland, and Ukraine is my second home. I’m fortunate to have supporters from both countries cheering for me at international events. I can truly feel the support of the Azerbaijani people everywhere I compete, and that gives me even more strength. It means a lot to me.
Idman.biz
