Sinan Ashfaq performs in the clutch to grab silver at French Open Taekwondo Championship 2019

The French Open Taekwondo Championship 2019 was one of the many international taekwondo events where more than 1,050 athletes from all around the world participated to earn laurels for their respective nations. 

Among several participating young and talented taekwondo fighters, UAE-based Sinan Ashfaq Ahmed yet again dominated the championship to finish on the runner up spot as he grabbed the Silver medal for the country by defeating Spain's David Rodrigues Garcia in the semi-final.

Sinan entered the stage full of confidence and outscored his counterpart from Russia named Pavel Mironov on points in the quarterfinal and then won the semi-final to book a date in the final.

But unfortunately he succumbed to a much experienced Russian opponent, Ivan Skudrit in the final and to settle for the silver medal. 

To his success he said,

"It was really tough fight and I gave my all, but my opponent was highly experienced and had played in number of top international G1 events. I am happy with my silver medal win and am working hard and hope to bring more medals for Pakistan at international competitions."

He is also grateful to Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTWF) and especially its President, Lt Col (R) Waseem Ahmed Janjua for his continuous support and encouragement.

Sinan’s coach Abdullah Hatim, UAE national team coach and Technical Director at Sharjah Sports Club, to his student's silver medal win also shared his views,

“Sinan is gradually improving his skills and he will be ready for the Junior World Championship next year.” 

PTWF Lt Col Waseem Ahmed said,

“Sinan is special because he has chosen to play for his country despite being an expatriate. We hope he will earn more medals for Pakistan in upcoming international events.”

The UAE-based Pakistani taekwondo fighter has his eyes set on his next target which is the Junior Taekwondo World Cup that is to be held in October next year in Belgium.