Mbagnick Ndiaye has brought pride to Senegal after securing the +100 kg gold medal at the African Open in Port Louis, Mauritius.
The victory, achieved on Sunday, not only adds another title to his career but also provides crucial points in the race for qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The tournament, organised by the International Judo Federation (IJF), marked Ndiaye’s first outing of the season.
At 31, the Senegalese judoka demonstrated once again why he remains a formidable force on the international stage. His latest success is a testament to his ability to adapt and evolve in a highly competitive discipline.
Born on 5 November 1993, Ndiaye has long been a leading figure in the heavyweight category.
Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most consistent performers in African judo, frequently reaching podiums across the continent.
His career reflects the resilience of an athlete who continues to refine his craft with patience and determination, regardless of the growing challenges of global competition.
This triumph comes just months after Ndiaye claimed silver at the African Championships in Abidjan in April.
His performance in Port Louis, where he overpowered each of his opponents with both strength and technical precision, marks a powerful response and a signal of intent for the new season.
For Senegal, the achievement resonates far beyond the medal count. Ndiaye’s victory highlights the nation’s potential on the international stage and offers inspiration to younger athletes striving for excellence. His message is clear: Senegal has the talent to stand tall in world sport.
The gold in Mauritius is more than just another accolade for Ndiaye. It underscores his maturity as an athlete and his unwavering ambition to reach new heights.
With the path to Los Angeles 2028 still long, this early-season success suggests that he remains firmly on course to achieve his Olympic dream.