Armenian Judoka Vahagn Ghazaryan Wins Silver at 2026 U.S. Open Championships

Armenian judoka Vahagn Ghazaryan captured the silver medal in the junior men's 73-kilogram division at the 2026 U.S. Open Judo Championships in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Armenian Sports News reported.

The 20-year-old competed for Hayastan MMA Academy, continuing a series of strong performances that have established him as one of the most promising young Armenian athletes training and competing in the United States.

According to Hayastan MMA Academy, Ghazaryan is ranked among the top three judokas in his weight class nationwide. He is also one of only a handful of non-U.S. citizens authorized to compete for the United States, a distinction that reflects both his talent and standing within the country's judo program.

The latest podium finish strengthens Ghazaryan's credentials as he looks beyond the domestic circuit and toward international competition. His long-term goal is to earn a place on the Olympic stage, and his performance at the U.S. Open marks another step in that pursuit.

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