Young wrestler Enkhtuvshingiin Oyunbold, 22, claimed victory at the National Wrestling Tournament during the Naadam festival, earning him the prestigious title of National Lion. At just 22 years old, Enkhtuvshingiin Oyunbold is the youngest champion to have won the highly prestigious wrestling tournament held annually during the Naadam Festival, in Mongolia. Beyond leaving with a Toyota Land Cruiser that will surely serve him well, this honorific victory now grants him the title of National Lion, a distinction that fills his country with pride.

Traditional Mongolian wrestling, a prestigious national sport

Along with archery and horse racing, Mongolian wrestling is one of the "three national sports" highlighted during the Naadam Festival. For centuries, wrestling (or bökh) has been an integral part of Mongolian culture and is cherished as entertainment in its own right. This test of strength is a source of pride for the entire nation, and everyone hopes to see their child become a wrestling champion one day. It's worth noting that at major international sporting competitions, Mongolia excels particularly in combat sports: over 70% of Mongolia's Olympic medalists are in fact wrestlers! The country also boasts three of the greatest sumo wrestlers in its record books, a Japanese specialty at that...

The Naadam festival tournament, eagerly awaited by all

During Naadam, held for centuries each July, wrestlers from across the country gather in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, to proudly display their strength and prowess, hoping to claim the title of National Lion. After years of training, more than 500 participants come to compete over two days in Mongolian wrestling matches. Khadbaatar Munkhbaatar, now 35 years old and a former "National Lion" in 2007, tells us that it is extremely difficult to predict a winner. Mongols have a saying that the victor will be the luckiest. Before Naadam, it is common for people to retreat to the mountains to seek the blessing of Naadam Tenger, what could be called the god of Naadam. For now, it is Enkhtuvshingiin Oyunbold who thanks Naadam Tenger for bringing him good fortune, and savors today one of Mongolia's most prestigious titles... before putting it on the line again next year. If he manages to defend it for at least two consecutive years, he will be recognized as a Titan... That is precisely what we wish for him!