Paris, France – After a 24-year hiatus, Bulgaria has once again claimed an Olympic gold medal, with Semen Novikov emerging victorious in the Greco-Roman wrestling 87 kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Novikov’s flawless performance culminated in a dominant 7-0 victory against Iran’s Alireza Azizkhoon Mohmadipiani in the final match.
The bout commenced with both wrestlers displaying high energy and strategic movements. Novikov, determined and focused, earned his first point just 4:50 into the match by bringing Mohmadipiani to the ground.
Seizing the momentum, he executed a flawless throw to extend his lead to 3-0. Throughout the first period, Novikov’s solid defense thwarted all attempts by his Iranian opponent to score, allowing him to end the period with a comfortable lead.
Entering the second period, Novikov maintained his aggressive stance, forcing Mohmadipiani back to the mat, which increased his advantage to 4-0.
Opting for a strategic push-out rather than risking a lift, Novikov secured another point, bringing the score to 5-0. With just over a minute left in the bout, Novikov added another point through a clever maneuver, pushing his lead further to 6-0.
A challenge from the Iranian corner over the last scoring action was dismissed, keeping Novikov’s lead intact. In the match’s final moments, Novikov executed a counterattack to secure the final point, sealing his victory at 7-0.
He then effectively defended his lead until the buzzer, marking a triumphant end to the contest and celebrating his Olympic gold.
Speaking from Paris, the new Olympic champion shared his thoughts on his remarkable victory. “The key was to believe in myself,” Novikov said.
“My coach believed in me, and Mr. Grisha Ganchev has always had faith in me, which is why I’m here today. I’m thrilled to have won the first gold for Bulgaria. Every day since the Olympics began, I’ve checked the results for Bulgaria, and I felt the need to change the situation. I hope this isn’t the last gold medal.”
Novikov also highlighted the broader significance of his win, acknowledging he was the only European competitor in his category.
“I was highly motivated and focused on not giving my opponent a chance. He’s a young competitor, but my coach and I discussed our strategy, and we knew I was on a different level. I just had to come out and demonstrate that.”
Expressing his joy and gratitude, Novikov hoped his victory brought happiness to the Bulgarian people.
“I know Bulgarians have a deep affection for Russians, but I hope more people will also grow to appreciate Ukrainians,” he added, before reciting the national anthem of Bulgaria.
Novikov dedicated his medal to his parents, Grisha Ganchev, whom he credits with giving him a second life in sports, and his coach, who helped him rise from bronze to gold.
“I couldn’t have won this medal alone. I owe it to all my coaches, physiotherapists, and doctors,” he concluded.
Novikov’s victory marks a significant moment in Bulgarian sports history, reigniting national pride and hope for future successes on the Olympic stage.