Judoka Mlugu misses medal at 2024 Paris Olympics
Andrew Mlugu PHOTO| COURTESY
What you need to know:
- After receiving a bye in the round of 64, Mlugu advanced by defeating William Tai Tin of Samoa 10-1. In the quarterfinals, Gaba was scheduled to face Japan’s Soichi Hashimoto.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s hopes for an Olympic medal through judoka Andrew Thomas Mlugu were dashed after his elimination in the round of 16 in the super middleweight class at the ongoing Olympic Games in Paris, France.
Mlugu, who participated in the event through a universality place, lost 10-0 to Frenchman Joan Benjamin Gaba in a one-sided match held today, July 29, 2024.
After receiving a bye in the round of 64, Mlugu advanced by defeating William Tai Tin of Samoa 10-1. In the quarterfinals, Gaba was scheduled to face Japan’s Soichi Hashimoto.
Expressing his disappointment, Mlugu said it was unfortunate to miss the chance of winning a medal for Tanzania.
"I am not happy as my target has not been achieved. I was in top shape to do my best in the event and win a medal for my country. Unfortunately, my mission was not accomplished," said Mlugu.
Mlugu’s trainer, Innocent Mallya, acknowledged the setback as a significant blow. "I commend Mlugu for his fighting spirit, but sometimes you need to accept defeat. We are now looking forward to the next edition of the Olympic Games," said Mallya.
