Sports Bulletin Report
Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): The organizing committee of the Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games has announced its ground-breaking decision to showcase a new standard for inclusivity within international sports tournaments.
For the first time in the history of the event, 6 Paralympic sports will be welcomed into its lineup, solidifying Saudi Arabia as a pioneering host nation. This progressive decision continues the Kingdom’s succession of unprecedented milestones, which includes its distinction as the first Middle Eastern country to host the esteemed World Combat Games.
Scheduled to take place from October 20 to 30 at the King Saud University Arena Complex, the Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games has already begun to see Paralympians with physical, intellectual and visual impairments qualify to compete in their respective divisions of Aikido, Muaythai, Armwrestling, Ju-Jitsu, Sambo and Savate.
Having acquired substantial interest within the martial arts community, more than 1,700 elite combat athletes from over 80 countries will compete in this year’s World Combat Games. In total, 16 combat sports will take part including Aikido, Armwrestling, Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Ju-Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kickboxing, Muaythai, Sambo, Savate, Sumo, Taekwondo, Wrestling and Wushu.
Congruent to the Saudi Vision 2030 objectives to promote sports participation and foster an all-encompassing range of athletic engagement, the decision to integrate Paralympic sports was a seamless one. This important inclusion illustrates the Kingdom's commitment to providing equal athletic opportunities, while allowing athletes to live up to their potential and achieve remarkable results.
Given the Kingdom’s nationwide initiatives providing life-changing support to people with disabilities, its resolution to welcome Paralympic athletes exemplifies its continued commitment to equality, while establishing its presence in global sporting events.
As Saudi Arabia continues to prepare to welcome the global community to the Riyadh 2023 World Combat Games, this decision sends a powerful message of hope and empowerment. By embracing diversity, the Kingdom is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone. The event promises to be a global celebration of athleticism, unity, and the indomitable human spirit.
