1,897 athletes from 12 countries and 22 Indian states participate in a grand event led by Rathod Raju Naik

Hyderabad, August 23, Ayush 24 News: The 1st World Open Taekwondo Championship-2026, held in Hyderabad, concluded successfully at the international level. Athletes from 12 countries and 22 Indian states participated on a single platform and showcased their talent.

Organisers said the championship was conducted in accordance with the required procedures, permissions and sporting standards, including the approval process associated with Kukkiwon and the guidelines of relevant Indian Olympic and sports organisations.

Rathod Raju Naik and the organising team played a key role in the successful conduct of the prestigious event. The organisers said months of planning went into athlete registration, team coordination and the management of coaches, referees, jury members and technical teams.

1,897 Athletes Participate

A total of 1,897 athletes, 515 coaches, 55 referees and 35 jury members took part in the championship. Representatives from 12 countries and teams from 22 Indian states were part of the sporting event.

Competitions Held in Four Categories

The championship was held on August 21, 22 and 23, with athletes from different age groups and categories competing in Speed Kicking, Speed Punching, Kyorugi and Poomsae.

The Speed Kicking and Speed Punching events tested the athletes’ speed, accuracy, strength, stamina and control. Young participants impressed spectators with their pace and technical skills.

In the Kyorugi competitions, athletes from various age and weight categories competed fiercely, displaying physical strength, speed, strategic ability and courage. They also demonstrated respect for their opponents and true sportsmanship.

Participants in the Poomsae category impressed with their body control, balance, precision, technical expertise, discipline and concentration.

Special Recognition for South India

Organisers said hosting a world-class Taekwondo championship in Hyderabad marked a significant milestone for the sports sector in South India, Telangana and Hyderabad. The participation of athletes from different countries and states demonstrated Hyderabad’s potential to host international martial arts and Taekwondo events.

International Exposure for Young Athletes

The championship provided young athletes with valuable international competition experience. Competing against participants from different countries and states helped them observe new techniques, build confidence, improve their competitive abilities and develop discipline and sportsmanship, the organisers said.

Contributions of Coaches, Referees and Jury Members

The 515 coaches who participated in the championship played a crucial role in providing technical training and helping athletes develop discipline, confidence, patience and perseverance.

Similarly, the 55 referees and 35 jury members ensured that the competitions were conducted fairly and in accordance with technical standards.

Taekwondo Is More Than Just a Sport

Organisers said Taekwondo is not merely a sport involving kicks and punches, but a way of life that teaches discipline, respect, confidence, courage, self-control and perseverance.

The championship brought together athletes from 12 countries and 22 Indian states on one platform, promoting friendship, mutual respect, unity and sportsmanship.

The organisers expressed their gratitude to the 1,897 athletes, 515 coaches, 55 referees, 35 jury members, representatives from 12 countries, teams from 22 states, parents, organisers, technical teams and sports enthusiasts who contributed to the success of the event.

Although the 1st World Open Taekwondo Championship-2026 has concluded successfully, the organisers expressed hope that it would open new opportunities for the development of Taekwondo in India. They also wished for more international Taekwondo champions to emerge from India and for young athletes to receive greater opportunities.

— Ayush 24 News