Rıza Kayaalp Wins Gold at Zagreb Open Wrestling Tournament 2024

Turkish wrestling legend Rıza Kayaalp returned to the mat with a gold medal victory at the Zagreb Open Wrestling Tournament in Croatia. The 36-year-old competed in the Greco-Roman style 130kg weight class, securing the championship title.

A Champion Returns

Kayaalp, who shares the record for most European championships with Russia’s Aleksandr Karelin, was competing in his first official competition in 610 days. Despite the extended break, he demonstrated dominance over his opponents throughout the tournament.

In the qualification round, Kayaalp defeated Aden Ikaika Hammar Attao of the United States. He continued his winning streak in the quarter-finals, defeating Rati Talikishvili of Georgia with a technical superiority score of 9-0. He then overcame Olzhas Syrlybay of Kazakhstan with a score of 4-0 in the semi-finals.

Dominant Performance

The final saw Kayaalp face Cohlton Michael Schultz of the United States, where he secured the gold medal with a 7-1 victory. Throughout the four matches at the Zagreb Open, Kayaalp allowed his opponents to score a mere single point.

Kayaalp’s last competition prior to the Zagreb Open was at the Polyak Imre and Varga Janos Memorial Tournament in Hungary in June 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long had Rıza Kayaalp been away from official competition?

Rıza Kayaalp had been away from official competition for 610 days prior to the Zagreb Open.

What weight class did Rıza Kayaalp compete in at the Zagreb Open?

Rıza Kayaalp competed in the Greco-Roman style 130kg weight class at the Zagreb Open.

How many points did Rıza Kayaalp’s opponents score against him during the Zagreb Open?

Rıza Kayaalp’s opponents scored a total of only 1 point against him in the four matches he competed in at the Zagreb Open.

What impact will this victory have on Kayaalp’s future competitive plans?