Suleiman Adbulrahman rises as UAE’s sprint star
HONG KONG—When Suleiman Abdulrahman thundered down the track at the 22nd Asian U20 Athletics Championships, the stadium held its breath.
Seconds later, the clock flashed 44.85—a historic run that not only secured gold in the men’s 400m but obliterated the previous meet record, making him the first to break the 45-second barrier.
At just 18, the Emirati sprinter has vaulted into the spotlight as one of Asia’s most electrifying quarter-milers.
``I’m proud to achieve this for my country. My goal is to prove I can compete at the highest level,’’ Abdulrahman declared after his record-breaking race.
As a result, he wiped out the 45.53-second meet standard set by Ailixier Wumaier of China on April 25, 2024 while toppling Qatar’s formidable duo of Khala Ngare Mahamat and Youssouf Abdelaziz Djibrine, who placed second and third, respectively.
Mahamat likewise eclipsed the previous standard with his 45.19-second clocking while Djibrine checked in at 45.58.
Abdulrahman’s run is more than a medal—it’s a statement. It places him among the fastest U20 athletes globally and signals that the UAE now has a genuine contender in the sprinting world.
His versatility across the 200m and 400m, coupled with relay experience, makes him a cornerstone of the nation’s athletics future.
With youth on his side and momentum building, Abdulrahman is expected to transition quickly into senior-level competition.
`` I’ll give everything I have and ensure I’m in peak condition every race, ready to deliver my very best,’’ said Abdulrahman.
His next targets include the World U20 Championships in Oregon in August and the Asian Games in September, where he will test himself against seasoned international rivals.
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