Why it matters:
Wrestling is considered Iran’s national sport, with deep cultural and historical roots. Iran consistently ranks among the world’s wrestling powers, rivaling Russia and the U.S.
Success at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) reinforces Iran’s status as a dominant wrestling nation in the region and strengthens its global reputation in Greco-Roman wrestling.
The big picture:
Iran’s Greco-Roman team topped the medal table, showcasing strength across multiple weight categories.
The highlight came as heavyweight Fardin Hedayati dominated the 130kg category, defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Abdullatif twice, including a decisive 9–0 technical fall in the final. With Olympic champion Mohammad Hadi Saravi also winning gold, Iran reaffirmed its global stature in wrestling, a sport central to its national identity.
Zoom in:
Gold medals: Saeed Esmaeili (67kg), Gholamreza Farrokhi (87kg), Mohammad Hadi Saravi (97kg), Fardin Hedayati (130kg).
Silver medal: Amir Abdi (77kg).
Bronze medal: Ali Ahmadi Vafa (60kg).
Zoom out:
Iran’s triumph at the Riyadh championships adds to its long tradition of producing Olympic and world champions, underscoring wrestling’s role as both a source of national pride and a symbol of resilience on the international stage.
Hossein Amiri - Hossein Vaez
