Mohammad Rashnonezhad Falls to Walide Khyar in Men's -66 kg Judo Elimination Round

The Men -66 kg Elimination Round of 32 in Judo at the 2024 Paris Olympics featured an exciting matchup between Mohammad Rashnonezhad, representing the Refugee Olympic Team, and Walide Khyar from France. The contest took place at the Champ-de-Mars Arena on July 28, 2024, and was a tightly contested bout that showcased the skills and determination of both athletes.

Rashnonezhad entered the matchup with a bodyweight of 65.9 kg and a world ranking of 164. He had previously achieved a notable second-place finish at the Asian Championships Seniors in 2017. However, he faced a tough challenge against Khyar, who weighed in at 65.8 kg and held a significantly higher world ranking of 16, having recently earned a bronze medal at the World Judo Championships in Doha.

The match began at 10:30 AM local time and was marked by intense action. Rashnonezhad initially struggled to keep pace with Khyar, who quickly established control. The bout lasted for a total of 2 minutes and 58 seconds, during which Rashnonezhad received multiple penalties, ultimately resulting in his defeat. The final score reflected Khyar's dominance, as Rashnonezhad finished with a result of 0 points, while Khyar scored a total of 10 points.

This elimination round was crucial, as it determined which athlete would advance in the competition. Khyar's victory propelled him into the next stage, while Rashnonezhad faced the disappointment of an early exit. The match concluded at 10:36 AM, leaving fans and analysts alike buzzing about the performances of both judo competitors.

The officiating was led by referee Zhang Guangyue from China, ensuring the match adhered to Olympic standards. Despite the loss, Rashnonezhad's participation in the Olympics represents a significant achievement in his athletic career, and he continues to inspire many as part of the Refugee Olympic Team.