Baku — September 7, 2025
Azerbaijani karateka Huseyn Mammadli has won the silver medal at the Karate 1 Series A tournament in Salzburg, Austria, the Azerbaijan Karate Federation confirmed.
Mammadli reached the final after a strong run through the elimination rounds, demonstrating consistency and technique against several high-ranked opponents. Although he fell just short of gold in the decisive bout, the silver medal marks one of his strongest international performances to date.
Importance of the Karate 1 Series A
The Karate 1 Series A, organized under the World Karate Federation (WKF), is regarded as one of the key competition platforms for athletes seeking to improve their global ranking. Each event attracts hundreds of competitors from around the world and serves as a pathway to the Karate 1 Premier League and major international championships.
According to the Federation, Mammadli’s achievement in Salzburg not only raises his individual profile but also contributes to Azerbaijan’s standing in the world karate community. Ranking points earned at these tournaments play a critical role in qualification for continental and world championships, as well as future Olympic consideration should karate be reinstated on the Olympic program.
Azerbaijani Success in Martial Arts
Azerbaijan has developed a strong reputation in martial arts over the past decades, with karate, taekwondo, and judo producing consistent medalists on the European and world stage. Karate athletes such as Rafael Aghayev — a multiple-time world and European champion — have inspired a new generation of competitors, including Mammadli.
While still early in his senior international career, Mammadli has already shown the ability to compete with experienced fighters in his weight category. His performance in Salzburg confirms him as one of the promising figures in Azerbaijan’s karate scene.
Federation’s Reaction
In a statement, the Azerbaijan Karate Federation praised Mammadli’s determination and highlighted the importance of international exposure for younger athletes. Officials noted that each medal won on the Series A circuit strengthens Azerbaijan’s ambitions to remain among the leading nations in the sport.
The federation also emphasized the broader value of these achievements: “Every result on the international tatami not only adds to the personal success of the athlete but also demonstrates the strength of Azerbaijan’s karate school,” the statement said.
Looking Ahead
The next steps for Mammadli include participation in upcoming Series A tournaments and potential qualification events for the European Championships. His medal in Salzburg provides valuable momentum as he looks to build on his international record.
With Azerbaijan continuing to invest in combat sports and nurture young talent, the silver medal is seen as both a personal breakthrough for Mammadli and a signal of the country’s ongoing presence in top-level karate.
