By Zaynab Kawtharani
OCA Young Reporter
Sanya, China, April 23, 2026: Saudi Arabia’s Abdulmalik Al Murdhi delivered a composed and high-level performance to claim the bronze medal in the men’s 62kg jiu jitsu competition at the Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 after a competitive run through one of the tournament’s most challenging brackets.
Al Murdhi began his campaign with confidence, producing a controlled 2–0 victory over Alidzhon Bobomurodov (Tajikistan) in the Round of 16. His early performance set the tone for a strong showing as he advanced into the quarterfinals where he continued his momentum with a disciplined win against Choi Hyeon-myeong of Korea by submission.
In the semifinals, Al Murdhi faced a tough challenge against the United Arab Emirates’ Omar Al Suwaidi. Despite a competitive display, the Saudi athlete fell short in a high-intensity match which shifted him into the bronze medal contest.
The third-place match saw Al Murdhi take on Palestine’s Mohammed Ajaj in a tightly contested bout. The match remained balanced and tactical with both athletes exchanging control at key moments. However, Al Murdhi managed to edge ahead by a single-point advantage, a decisive margin that ultimately secured him the bronze medal.
Throughout the contest, Al Murdhi demonstrated strong defensive control and composure under pressure, particularly in the closing stages where small margins determined the outcome.
The result marks an important achievement for Saudi Arabia in the jiu jitsu competition at Sanya 2026 reinforcing the country’s growing presence in combat sports at continental level events.
Saudi Arabia continues its participation in the jiu jitsu tournament with athletes also competing in additional divisions including the 69kg category as the competition progresses.