On the sixth day of the First European Games in Baku, Abdusalam Hadisov, a representative of Russia, gained the bronze medal in freestyle wrestling (category up to 97 kg). The winner was Hetag Hazyumov, an Azerbaijani athlete; the second place was won by Elizbar Odikadze from Georgia. Abdusalam Gadisov told journalists about the championships in Baku.
- Why do you think you didn’t win the semi-final?
- Unfortunately, the defeat didn’t let me fight for the gold medal. I know my opponent (Hetag Hazyumov) very well. Last year I fought him twice – at the European Championships and the World Cup. The fights were difficult, as well as this one.
Probably there were some mistakes made during my training. We will work harder. It is a pity that I didn't win the gold medal, but I won’t be sad, I will go on working. The World Cup and the Olympic Games are upcoming, and we should prove there that we are able to gain the gold medal.
I had some mistakes in tactics, everything was alright with the physical and functional conditions, but there were some tactical drawbacks. It seems Hetag was well prepared; probably he studied my wrestling style. He was ready. And I congratulate him; he deserves the victory. Maybe he was supported by a domestic atmosphere. But still it was his achievement completely; he worked hard and did it.
- Was Hetag Hazyumov supported by a greater number of fans in the hall?
- It would be right to say that they didn’t wish me ill, but they supported him very much. I would like to apologize to our fans, everybody who has come here to support us. Thank you for your support. We will try to make you happy next time.
For wrestlers who represented the national team of Russia, third place and complete defeat are the same. Maybe the silver or bronze medal could be small cheer, but there are many champions of Europe and world champions in our team. All athletes want to win the gold medal.
- What are your impressions from the First European Games in Baku?
- The atmosphere is great at the Games. The championships are being held at a high level. The athletes’ village and contests are super. The food, accommodation and facilities are at the highest level. So, emotions are stronger than at the European Championships.
- Can you compare the atmosphere here with the one at the Olympics?
- The atmosphere is similar to the Olympics’, like in London or at the Universiada in Kazan. I like the cheerful atmosphere, it is like a festival. Sports unite all of us from different countries, despite political or economic moments. We are communicating here – Armenians with Azerbaijanis, Russians with Ukrainians. Sports unite us. The atmosphere is friendly. We support our athletes, and I think they support us as well.