Azerbaijani Greco-Roman wrestler Nihat Mammadli has reflected on his performance at the World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan, admitting that his own mistakes cost him a second world title.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the 63kg wrestler shared an emotional message on Instagram, expressing both disappointment at missing out on gold and gratitude for winning another world championship medal.
"Alhamdulillah, I became a silver medallist at the World Championships. The only reason I am disappointed is that my own mistakes cost me the gold medal and my second world championship title.
"Perhaps gold was destined for me, but I rushed things, and the consequences were painful. I believe everything will get better, and I know I will do everything in my power to make that happen.
"I am endlessly grateful for where I am today. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me along this journey and contributed to my success, as well as the federation's leadership for providing us with all the necessary conditions and always standing by our side.
"I am also grateful to everyone who prayed for me, congratulated me and sent kind messages," Mammadli wrote.
The Azerbaijani wrestler faced Armenia's Karen Aslanyan in the 63kg final but suffered an 8-4 defeat, narrowly missing the opportunity to become a two-time world champion.
Despite the disappointment, the silver medal represents another significant achievement in Mammadli's international career.
It is his second medal at the World Wrestling Championships, following his gold-medal triumph in Tirana in 2024.
Having already established himself among the world's leading Greco-Roman wrestlers in his weight category, Mammadli will now aim to learn from his mistakes and return to the top of the podium at future international competitions.
