Sports digest: Global success for Uzbekistan's sports stars

As 2024 comes to a close, Uzbek athletes are making headlines across various sports. From record-breaking performances in weightlifting to rising football stars and thrilling boxing victories, Uzbekistan's sporting scene is gaining international attention.

Ruslan Nuriddinov Breaks Record to Become World Champion

At the World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain, Uzbek weightlifter Ruslan Nuriddinov set a new world record, securing the world champion title. Competing in the -109 kg category, Nuriddinov lifted 182 kg in the snatch, ranking fifth. However, his exceptional performance in the clean and jerk, where he lifted 242 kg, shattered the record he previously set in Tashkent three years ago. With a total of 424 kg, Nuriddinov claimed gold in both categories, marking his third world championship title.

His compatriot, Sharofiddin Amriddinov, also showcased a strong performance by winning gold in the snatch, lifting 212 kg. Amriddinov finished sixth overall with a total of 396 kg. The Uzbek national team concluded the championship with 3 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals, further solidifying Uzbekistan's dominance in weightlifting.

Murodjon Akhmadaliev Captures WBA Interim Belt

On December 15, Uzbek professional boxer Murodjon Akhmadaliev stepped into the ring in Monaco, delivering a powerful performance against Mexican Ricardo Espinosa Franco. Fighting for the WBA Interim belt, Akhmadaliev knocked out his opponent in the third round of the twelve-round bout.

This victory marked Akhmadaliev's 13th win in the professional ring. His next challenge will be against Japanese pound-for-pound leader Naoya Inoue, the current undisputed champion in the weight class. The two fighters are expected to negotiate a bout for 2025 under WBA's mandatory order.

Vinicius Junior Wins FIFA's 'The Best' Award

In Doha, Qatar, Real Madrid and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior was crowned the 2024 FIFA "The Best" Player of the Year. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti also claimed the Best Coach award.

Real Madrid's journey in Qatar continued as the team competed in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Mexican club Pachuca.

Uzbek Talent Joins Spanish Club Leganes

Uzbek football continues to make waves in Europe. Lazizbek Mirzaev, a standout player from Uzbekistan's U-17 national team and Lokomotiv Tashkent, officially joined Spanish club Leganes. On December 17, Leganes announced Mirzaev's signing, highlighting their focus on nurturing international talent.

Mirzaev will play for Leganes' youth team, Juvenil A, wearing the number 10 jersey. The young midfielder caught the attention of scouts during the U-17 World Cup, where he scored against England. Transfermarkt currently values the 18-year-old at 350,000 euros.

Manchester City, PSG, and Atletico Compete for Abdukodir Khusanov

Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov is attracting interest from top European clubs. L'Equipe reported that Manchester City, PSG, and Atletico Madrid are vying for the Lens and Uzbekistan national team player.

Lens is reportedly open to selling Khusanov during the winter transfer window if they receive an offer of at least 30 million euros. The 20-year-old has played 15 matches this season, and his contract with Lens extends until the summer of 2027. Transfermarkt values Khusanov at 12 million euros.

Saudi Arabia to Ban Alcohol Sales at 2034 World Cup

The Guardian reported that fans will not be permitted to purchase alcohol in stadiums during the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. FIFA has stated it will not push the Saudi government to change its stance on alcohol, following a similar decision during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Saudi Arabia's strict alcohol regulations are set to remain in place for the tournament, with sales limited to non-Muslim diplomats at designated locations. The 2034 World Cup will span 38 days and feature 48 teams, similar to the expanded format of the 2026 World Cup in North America.