Bangkok, December 15, 2024 – In a groundbreaking achievement for Saudi Arabian sports, Yara Al-Omari made history by winning the first-ever women’s boxing medal for Saudi Arabia at the ASBC Asian Elite Boxing Championship held in Bangkok, Thailand. Al-Omari claimed a bronze medal in the highly competitive 52 kg category, marking a historic moment for both Saudi women in sports and the Kingdom’s boxing program. This victory not only solidifies her status as one of Saudi Arabia’s rising stars but also underscores the Kingdom’s growing commitment to empowering women athletes across various disciplines.
Al-Omari’s achievement comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is placing a greater emphasis on the development of women’s sports, as part of the broader vision to ensure female athletes have the necessary resources, platforms, and opportunities to succeed. The 52 kg bronze medal at the ASBC Asian Elite Boxing Championship marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s sporting history, as it signals the Kingdom’s presence on the international boxing stage and the continued rise of its female athletes.
Eng. Abdullah bin Ahmed Al-Harbi, President of the Saudi Boxing Federation, expressed immense pride in Al-Omari’s success. He attributed this historic accomplishment to the strong support that Saudi sports continue to receive from the nation’s wise leadership. Al-Harbi also acknowledged the vital role of Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, whose guidance and oversight have been instrumental in advancing the Kingdom’s sporting goals.
Al-Harbi emphasized that the Saudi Boxing Federation is dedicated to supporting the development of female athletes, with a specific focus on increasing female participation in sports. He stated that this medal is not just a personal triumph for Al-Omari but also the first fruit of the Federation’s long-term strategy to build a strong foundation for female talent in boxing. This achievement, he added, represents the beginning of what he hopes will be a series of future successes that will bring more recognition and accolades to Saudi Arabia, elevating the Kingdom’s profile in continental and international competitions.
Yara Al-Omari herself expressed immense pride in her accomplishment, noting that this milestone has served as a significant source of motivation for her and her teammates. She described her success as an inspiration to young Saudi women athletes, urging them to chase their dreams and aim for greatness. Al-Omari’s victory, she stated, is not only a personal achievement but a symbol of the progress Saudi Arabia has made in fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting culture.
Looking ahead, Al-Omari’s triumph is expected to encourage more women in Saudi Arabia to pursue sports at the professional level. With the continued support from the government and the Saudi Boxing Federation, there is a clear path toward further advancements in women’s sports. The Kingdom’s commitment to elevating female athletes in boxing and other disciplines is expected to yield even greater achievements in the future, marking a new era for Saudi women in international sports.
This victory by Yara Al-Omari is not only a personal success but a historic moment that will resonate across the Kingdom and inspire generations of young women to push the boundaries of what is possible in sports.