Eldos Smetov, a graduate of the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, became the champion of judo at the Paris Olympics. He had previously won a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics and a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Eldos also obtained a second higher education at his alma mater. In 2018, he graduated from the Faculty of Law with a degree in law. His thesis was titled: "The Exclusive Role of the Court in Administering Justice in Criminal Court Proceedings of the Republic of Kazakhstan".
International Master of Sports Eldos Baktybaevich Smetov won the final against Frenchman Luka Mkheidze and claimed victory. During the qualification rounds, he defeated Tornike Chkadua (Netherlands) and Dilshot Khalmatov (Ukraine), and in the quarter-finals, he triumphed over the silver medalist of the Tokyo Olympics, Yang Yu Wei (Taipei). In the semi-final, he managed to defeat the world champion and three-time European champion Francisco Garrigos. As a result, he made history as the first Kazakh athlete to become an Olympic champion in judo. Eldos dedicated his victory to his parents and family, acknowledging that their support greatly motivated him.
When Eldos Smetov returned from Tokyo with his victory, the head of his alma mater, Zhanseit Tuimebayev, received him and awarded him the "Eren enbegi ushin" medal. Following that, a meeting with students was organized, where he shared his thoughts: "Sport requires great effort, so it is important to manage and value time properly. No matter what obstacles you face, you must set clear goals and strive to achieve them." The athlete also spoke about his future plans, mentioning that he had already started preparing for the Paris Olympics. And today, we are witnessing the realization of his achievements.
"I remember at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, I competed in the final. At that moment, the national anthem of my opponent's country was played. I thought to myself that one day, the national anthem of Kazakhstan would be played in my honor. Today, my dream has come true," Eldos shared his emotions about the Paris Olympics. "I worked hard to achieve this medal. I didn't have the opportunity to see my family whenever I wanted and trained far from home. I have five children. If I have one gold from the Olympics, I already have five golds at home. This gold medal is not Kazakhstan's first, but it is the first gold in judo for Central Asian countries", said the champion in an interview with the International Judo Federation.
Eldos Smetov intends to continue his career until the 2028 Olympics. He mentioned that the 34-year-old Olympic finalist in Greco-Roman wrestling, Demeu Zhadyrayev, inspired him. He shared this during a press briefing with journalists. By the time of the next Olympics, Smetov will be 35 years old. Therefore, Eldos will compete with the golden badge awarded by the International Judo Federation.
It is this sincere wish and the blessings of a generous and warm-hearted country that inspires every athlete. As people place their hopes on someone, they wish to meet those expectations. Eldos fulfilled that hope and achieved his goal. As the blue flag soared and the national anthem played before the world, the wrestler, moved by the moment, shed a tear, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Nurbek NURZHANULY
