“ASIAN GOLD IS JUST THE BEGINNING”

Jordan has welcomed home a new sporting hero who has said that winning his first Asian gold is just the start of his pursuit of greatness.

Abdullah Hammad, 16, became the best in Asia for his age and weight at the recent Asian Karate Championships in Japan, and despite his youth, he has set an ambitious target to become the best in the world.

“I’m so proud of what I achieved out there,” he said. “It was a tough competition but I made it through with the support of my coach and teammates.”

With Karate included on the Olympic roster in two years, in Japan, Hammad believes that his continental gold can spur him on to greater things.

“Qualifying for an Olympics is no longer just a dream. By working hard I know I can do it. Being on the podium is just the beginning for me. I won’t stop dreaming until I become the best in the world.”

Hammad also credited the Olympic Preparation Centre (OPC) in Amman for his achievement, a facility that is already paying dividends.

“I’m so lucky to train there; it’s a place where you can find anything you need to be a role model athlete. Many thanks to the Jordan Olympic Committee for giving us the chance to train there.”