Akgul and Lazarev Retire After Bronze Match

— In a poignant moment at the Olympic wrestling competition, Turkey’s Taha Akgul and Kyrgyzstan’s Aiaal Lazarev faced off for the bronze medal in the 125-kilogram freestyle category. Akgul emerged victorious with a decisive 7-0 win, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Following the match, both wrestlers symbolically retired by removing their shoes, a traditional gesture in the sport, as they celebrated their achievements with the cheering crowd. Akgul, 33, has had a remarkable journey, having previously secured Olympic gold in 2016 and a bronze in Tokyo. His latest bronze adds to his impressive tally as a three-time world champion, solidifying his legacy in wrestling. The emotional farewell resonated with fans and fellow athletes alike, highlighting the end of an era for both competitors. The day also featured notable performances from American wrestlers, including Kyle Dake, who staged a thrilling comeback to win bronze in the men’s 74 kg freestyle match. Trailing late in the match against Serbia’s Hetik Cabolov, Dake rallied to secure a 10-4 victory. Meanwhile, Kennedy Blades advanced to the finals in the women’s 76 kg class after defeating Kyrgyzstan’s Aiperi Medet Kyzy 8-6, setting up a gold medal match against Japan’s Yuka Kagami. In contrast, American Kyle Snyder faced disappointment in the semifinals of the 87 kg category, losing 6-4 to Bahrain’s Akhmed Tazhudinov. Snyder will have another chance to compete for bronze against either Kazakhstan’s Alisher Yergali or Iran’s Amirati Azarpira, as he aims to become the fourth American to win multiple Olympic golds.