Tajik Teen Rowing Star Makes History with World Championship Bronze

Tajik rising rowing talent Muhammadi Radjabov has made history by winning a bronze medal at the Marathon World Rowing and Canoeing Championships, in Gyor, Hungary.

The prestigious event drew over 500 athletes from more than 40 countries, showcasing the world’s top young paddlers, The Caspian Post reports via Tajik media.

Competing in the C-1 junior category over a grueling 14.4 km marathon distance, Radjabov secured third place, marking the first-ever podium finish for a Tajik athlete at the World Junior Rowing Championships since the country gained independence.

Radjabov, who trains at Olympic Reserve School No. 4 in Dushanbe under coach Tohir Nurmukhammadi, credited his long-term preparation and perseverance for the medal. After the race, he reflected on the challenge:

“It was a real test-fast-paced from the start with constant pressure from my rivals. But I held on and brought a medal home. I’m proud to represent Tajikistan at this level.”

The Gyor competition featured a full slate of events:

Short distances (3.4 km) for junior and senior kayak and canoe races

Long-distance marathons of up to 26.2 km for various age groups

Paracanoe events (8.2-11.8 km) for both men and women

This bronze medal adds to Radjabov’s growing list of achievements. In June 2025, he clinched gold at the Asian Junior Rowing Championships in Pattaya, Thailand, dominating the 1,000-meter distance. He previously earned the Asian title and a silver medal in the 200-meter sprint.

Sports experts say Radjabov’s strong international performances signal his potential to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. For now, Radjabov and his coach plan to return to training with a focus on improving speed and long-distance technique.

“Muhammadi’s success is just the beginning,” said coach Nurmukhammadi. “We hope his achievement will inspire a new generation of Tajik athletes. The potential is enormous.”