Algiers 2018: Sherif Osman vs. the bar

Sherif Osman is like wine: he improves as he gets older.

Far from feeling satisfied after winning three Paralympic and world titles, the Egyptian powerlifter is hungry for more.

The 35-year-old is looking to successfully defend the African Championships title in Algiers, Algeria. On paper, it seems there is no rival strong enough to dethrone Osman.

His main opponent is the bar. “I want to win the gold medal, achieve qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and break my own world record again one more time,” he said.

Osman holds the world record of 211kg in the men’s up to 59kg, the category he will compete in. He is also the world record-holder in the up to 54kg.

His category at Algiers 2018 will also feature the likes of Algeria’s Abdelkrim Chibani and Aymen Khodja, who will receive the home crowd’s support.

Also keep an eye on Ibrahim Dauda. He may be an underdog as he will be making his international debut at the Africans. But considering Nigeria’s success in powerlifting, he may very well cause an upset.

Head to Head

PERSONAL INFO

Osman: Nationality: Egypt. Age: 35

PARALYMPIC GAMES

Osman: Games: 3 (2008, 2012, 2016)

Medals: 3 (golds)

DID YOU KNOW?

Osman: Was elected to serve as an athlete liaison for World Para Powerlifting from 2018 to 2021