In a proud moment for India, Ahmed Taha Masoody, a young martial artist from Srinagar, brought laurels to the nation by securing a bronze medal at the prestigious 5th Junior World Pencak Silat Championship. The championship was held from 18th to 22nd December 2024 at the Sports City ADNEC Center in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The event saw participation from 1,100 athletes representing 55 countries, making it one of the most competitive tournaments in the sport.
Ahmed’s incredible performance stood out among a field of highly skilled athletes from across the globe. By clinching the bronze medal, he showcased not only his talent but also the growing presence of Indian athletes in Pencak Silat on the world stage.
This achievement was made possible through Ahmed's unwavering dedication, the unflinching support of his family, and the guidance of his coaches, especially Mr. Mohd Iqbal, the Coach of the Pencak Silat Federation of India. Mr. Iqbal has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young talent in the country. His mentorship and encouragement have played a pivotal role in Ahmed’s rise as a prominent athlete in the sport.
Ahmed’s success at the world championship follows an exceptional performance in November 2024, where he secured **four gold medals in two national-level Pencak Silat championships. These back-to-back victories at the national level were a precursor to his remarkable success on the international stage, cementing his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in the sport.
Hailing from the picturesque valley of Kashmir, Ahmed’s journey to global recognition is a testament to resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges such as limited facilities and resources in his home state, Ahmed’s passion for Pencak Silat, combined with the support of his family and coaches, has propelled him to extraordinary heights.
The championship, organized under the auspices of the international Pencak Silat federation, was a grand celebration of martial arts. Athletes from traditional Pencak Silat powerhouses such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines dominated the event. Despite this, Ahmed showcased exceptional skill, grit, and determination to secure his place on the podium, earning admiration and respect from participants and spectators alike.
Ahmed expressed his gratitude to his family, coaches, and Mr. Mohd Iqbal for their constant support. “Winning a medal at the world championship has been a dream come true. It wouldn’t have been possible without the encouragement of my family and the mentorship of Mr. Iqbal, who has been a guiding light throughout my journey,” he said.
Ahmed’s accomplishments have brought immense pride not only to his family but also to the entire nation. His success is a source of inspiration for countless young athletes, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where his journey serves as a reminder of the immense potential waiting to be harnessed.
As Ahmed continues to rise in the world of Pencak Silat, his achievements underline the importance of nurturing young talent and supporting athletes at the grassroots level. His story is a shining example of how perseverance, passion, and the right support system can lead to global recognition.
With his determination and talent, Ahmed Taha Masoody is poised for even greater achievements in the future, bringing more glory to India and inspiring the next generation of athletes.