A New Era in National Women's Weightlifting: Rustamova’s World Triumph
The Youth World Weightlifting Championship held in Ismailia, Egypt, has been written in golden letters in the sports history of Turkmenistan. Anamjan Rustamova, a 2nd-year student at the Turkmen State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports, surpassed the world's strongest athletes through her unyielding will and skill, earning the title of World Champion for the second consecutive year.
Competing in the weight category up to 86 kg, the competition was intensely contested for Anamjan. After achieving 110 kg in the snatch, she saved her main strength for the clean and jerk. This stage turned into a true sporting drama during the clash with athletes from leading nations, China and Armenia.
When Chinese athlete Xu Linyue took the lead with a total of 256 kg, Anamjan had only one option: to take a risk. Thanks to the strategic decision of the Turkmen coaching staff and Anamjan's sheer bravery, she successfully lifted 147 kg in her final attempt. With a total of 257 kg, she edged out her Chinese rival by just 1 kilogram to claim the gold medal. Emma Poghosyan from Armenia took the bronze.
This glorious victory was not just a sporting milestone but also a personal celebration; having turned 20 on May 8th, Anamjan presented herself with the world's ultimate gift for her birthday. Notably, she also won gold at last year's World Championship in Lima, Peru. Her current success is a testament to her stability and ability to maintain her elite status.
As international sports media noted, Anamjan Rustamova’s victory signifies that women's weightlifting in Turkmenistan has reached a new pinnacle. Having started her training under Deripbay Kerimbayev in the Garaşsyzlyk district of Dashoguz province, she is now proving her world-class mastery under the guidance of the national team's head coach, Meretguly Sahetmyradov.
At the 2026 World Championship, Turkmenistan's national team won a total of 2 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze medal, successfully breaking into the top 10 strongest countries in the world.
