Mutaz incredibly happy with silver

STAR high jumper Mutaz Essa Barshim enhanced his reputation by winning Qatar’s first-ever silver medal in Olympics at the Rio Games after clearing 2.36M.

Mutaz, who had bagged a bronze at London four years ago, has now become Qatar’s most successful Olympian. The ASPIRE Academy product reflected on his achievements.

How excited are you after winning Qatar’s first silver at Olympics?

It was a great competition and having HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani in the crowd supporting me was extra motivation for me. Not only that, the first call I received after the competition was from the Emir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani himself. I’m incredibly happy!

Whom would you dedicate this medal to?

When I was young, I used to watch my father and other great athletes, and dreamt of standing on the podium at Olympics. Today, at the age of 25, I celebrate my second Olympic medal and for me that’s such a blessing. None of this would’ve been possible without the help of my parents, everyone in my country and God. I felt like the whole nation was behind me, supporting me in every step. This medal is for each and every one of them!