Bratislava: Qatari skydiver Saleh Al Abidi clinched the gold medal in the Senior Individual category of the Accuracy Landing competition, concluding his participation in the 48th CISM World Military Parachuting Championship 2026, hosted by Slovakia from Aug. 14 to 23.

According to Qatar News Agency, this feat followed robust contests over Lucenec Airport, with 128 competitors in the Senior Individual category representing 33 countries and vying for the top spots and medals. Al Abidi topped the standings with six points, tying with Czech competitor Bonifac Hajek and Germany's Matthias Diemler, giving Qatar another feat at the military world championship.

HE Chairman of the Qatar Air Sports Committee and Commander of the Joint Special Forces, Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Zayed Al Otaibi, expressed profound satisfaction with Al Abidi's achievement, emphasizing that this success is a natural result of the support Qatari sports receive from the country's leadership. Al Otaibi noted that the team's participation was driven by the ambition to win and proudly represent Qatar on the global stage.

HE Secretary-General of the Qatar Air Sports Committee, Capt. Hazza Hamad Al Attiyah, also expressed pride in this accomplishment, attributing it to the unwavering support and focus the team receives. Al Attiyah acknowledged the team's determination and resolve, which led to this success despite the fierce competition and high technical standards at the tournament.

He extended gratitude to all players for their efforts and congratulated the champions on their achievements. Al Attiyah highlighted the significance of the team's continuous presence on the coronation stages as a testament to the committee's work in developing players capable of achieving notable results in various arenas.

Lt. Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Hajaji, Captain of Qatar's Accuracy Landing Team, remarked on the team's focus and determination, which were crucial in achieving this victory. Al Abidi shared his joy over the accomplishment, emphasizing the unity and effort of the players throughout the tournament, which aimed at holding the Qatari flag high in the global arena.

Al Abidi further stated that this achievement marks a significant step in the team's journey, paving the way for more successes in future major tournaments.