Team Keldiyorova: Partnership forging olympic gold

The standout topic of the week in Uzbekistan has undoubtedly been Diyora Keldiyorova. The judoka, who claimed gold at the Paris Olympics, has received congratulations from figures as prominent as the President of Uzbekistan and the British Ambassador.

While some female athletes step back from their careers after marriage, Diyora’s success tells a different story. Her remarkable achievement is not just her own but also a shared triumph with her husband, Azamat Matyokubov.

Matyokubov has been a consistent pillar of support for Diyora throughout her journey. Not only has he encouraged her sports career, but he also played a pivotal role in introducing her to judo and aiding her development. During an interview at the QALAMPIR.UZ studio, Matyokubov shared his aspirations and involvement in his wife’s success.

“Every athlete’s goal is to compete in the Olympics and win a medal. Before the Games, I actively participated in Diyora’s training, focusing on improving her weaknesses and analyzing her competitors’ strengths. My aim now is to join Diyora at the next Olympics and compete alongside her,” says Matyokubov.

The conversation also touched on a widely discussed topic: why Matyokubov did not travel to Paris to support his wife.

“I could have gone to Paris, but I knew my presence might add pressure on Diyora. Instead, I chose to support her from Tashkent, which I believe was the better decision,” he explained.

Diyora Keldiyorova’s triumph is groundbreaking. At 26 years old, she became the first female Olympic champion in Uzbekistan’s history, ending a 16-year medal drought for Uzbek women at the Olympics. Her victory marks not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Uzbekistan and its growing strength in women’s sports.