“Only the process”: Ganesh Mani Ratnam on his Asian Games gold and bronze

The United Arab Emirates' jiu-jitsu team concluded a highly successful campaign at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, securing eight medals, including a record five golds. Key contributors to the team's triumph included Balqees Al Hashmi, Khaled Al Shehhi, Ahmed Andeez, Mahdi Al Awlaqi, and Asma Al Hosani. Al Shehhi and Al Harbi each won silver, while Amaar Al Hosani claimed bronze.

This marked the UAE's third consecutive gold medal at the Asian Games, following their victories in 2018 and 2023. Notable victories included Al Shehhi claiming his second consecutive gold and Al Harbi securing a silver in an all-Emirati final. Team members expressed pride in their achievements, with Al Shehhi dedicating his gold medal to the UAE's leadership, family, coach, and national teammates.

Al Harbi emphasized the UAE's growing prominence in jiu-jitsu, stating that the all-Emirati final demonstrated the sport's development in the country. The team's final day of competition was attended by UAE ambassador to Japan, Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, and other officials who praised the team's successful campaign, attributing their achievements to careful planning, consistent effort, and the support of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.