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Interview of Rafiq Huseynov, Olympic medalist, world and European champion in Greco-Roman wrestling of Azerbaijan, to AZERTAC
- It is interesting to see you at the open Sumgayit city gymnastics championship held at the Sumgayit Olympic Sports Complex…
- First of all, I would like to note that the organization of such city championships in gymnastics gives impetus to the development of this sport in the country. Teenagers and young people are slowly starting to get interested in gymnastics. I came to Sumgayit with my family to show my support to the youth. The Azerbaijani national team, consisting of adults, also performed at the competition before the world championship. As you know, I received treatment at the National Gymnastics Arena after shoulder surgery. I have a close friendship with every member of the team. My support for them is endless.
- Now let's talk about wrestling, your profession. What do you think about your future career?
- In the near future, the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation will announce a surprise decision regarding me. The federation decides about the future of athletes of our level. We will accept whatever the leadership of the organization says. Since things are going well in the national team at the moment, there is no need for a change of coach. To be honest, it's not an easy job. It requires great responsibility. I think that the decision that will be made about me will be joyful for wrestling fans.
- It's interesting, can you announce that decision now?
- No, I don't want to spoil the surprise (laughs).
- Next month, the World Wrestling Championship among adults will be held in Zagreb, Croatia.
- Currently, the Azerbaijani national team is holding a training camp in Istanbul. I will join them in the near future. The team that will participate in the world championship is already known. However, the names are not announced yet. Because there may be injuries. The mood in the team is high. I think that we will repeat the successful results of previous years in that tournament.
- What can you say about the current state of men's and women's wrestling in Azerbaijan?
- I was last at the U-17 World Championship. If we look at the lower groups, we can see a growth trend there. I think that if we continue like this, great results await us at the Olympic Games to be held in 2028 and 2032. The Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation is also building new material and technical bases for athletes to train. Wrestling halls are already opening not only in Baku, but also in the regions. This is an indicator of our successful future.
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