Uzbekistan Celebrates Olympic Gold Medalists with Lavish Rewards: Abdumalik Khalokov Among the Big Winners
Uzbekistan’s boxing sensation Abdumalik Khalokov has been showered with lavish rewards following his triumphant gold medal win in the men’s 57kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Khalokov’s decisive 5-0 victory over Kyrgyzstan’s Munarbek Seiitbek Uulu not only secured him the top spot on the podium but also triggered a wave of national pride and celebration.
A Historic Olympic Performance
Khalokov’s gold is part of a stunning performance by Uzbekistani boxers in Paris. Alongside him, compatriots Bakhodir Jalolov, Hasanboy Dusmatov, Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev, and Lazizbek Mullojonov also claimed gold in their respective categories. With five gold medals out of seven men’s boxing categories, Uzbekistan has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the sport. Overall, the nation achieved a record-breaking eight gold medals across all sports, doubling their previous record of four set in the Rio Olympics. In addition, they won two silver and three bronze medals, totaling an impressive 13 medals.
Extravagant Rewards for Gold Medalists
The Uzbekistani government has decided to reward its Olympic heroes with extravagant prizes. According to a tweet by sports writer Jalol Akhmedov🇺🇿, gold medal winners like Khalokov will receive $200,000, a new two-floor house, and a Chevrolet Tahoe. Silver medalists will be awarded $100,000, a new apartment, and a BYD Song Champion car. Bronze medalists will get $50,000, a new apartment, and a BYD Song Champion car. These generous rewards are a testament to the country’s commitment to honoring its athletes’ hard work and achievements.
In his tweet, Akhmedov🇺🇿 wrote, “Olympics games medalists are welcomed and awarded by the President in Uzbekistan”.
A Near-Tragedy During Celebrations
Amidst the celebrations, the Uzbekistani boxing team faced a severe health scare. Boxing coach Tulkin Kilichev collapsed from a cardiac arrest during the celebrations at Roland Garros on August 8. The situation was dire, but thanks to the quick response from Team GB medics, Kilichev was saved. Team GB physiotherapist Robbie Lillis and Dr. Harj Singh sprang into action, with Singh performing CPR and Lillis using a defibrillator. Their prompt and skilled intervention was crucial in reviving Kilichev, who was later taken to the hospital and made a full recovery.
Lillis recounted the intense moments, saying, “Initially, he didn’t come back, but after about 20 to 30 seconds of continuous CPR from Harj, he suddenly regained consciousness.” The quick actions of the medics not only saved Kilichev’s life but also allowed the Uzbekistani boxing team to continue celebrating their historic achievements.
Team GB physiotherapist Robbie Lillis told PA News Agency, “There was a cry for a doctor, for help.” Lillis and Dr. Harj Singh swiftly responded, with Singh performing CPR while Lillis used a defibrillator.
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A Triumphant Yet Humbling Experience
The generous rewards and the life-threatening scare serve as a powerful reminder of the highs and lows experienced by athletes and their support teams. Despite the challenges, the Uzbekistani boxers’ accomplishments and the country’s recognition of their efforts underscore the dedication and passion that drive these elite athletes. As Uzbekistan basks in the glory of its most successful Olympic Games to date, the focus now shifts to future competitions and continuing this legacy of excellence.
Lillis described the tense moments, stating, “Initially he didn’t come back but, about 20 to 30 seconds later, after Harj continued doing CPR, all of a sudden he came back conscious with us.” The venue’s medical team arrived shortly after, and Kilichev was taken to the hospital, where he recovered. Lillis expressed relief and hope, stating, “I’m very, very thankful that we did have all the equipment on us and that we were trained.”
