From Syrian War to Olympic Dreams: Judo Star Inspired by Muhammad Ali

Syrian War to Olympic Dreams: Judo Star At the Paris 2024 Games, Adnan Khankan, inspired by Muhammad Ali, will make his Olympic judo debut. Khankan, who refused to join the Syrian Army during the civil war, was influenced by Ali, who opposed the Vietnam War.
Khankan, 30, will compete for the IOC Refugee Team. Born in Damascus, he escaped Syria in 2015 to evade Bashar al-Assad’s troops during the civil war.

Khankan, inspired by Ali’s bravery, refused to fight an unjust war. “I didn’t see it as my war,” he says. After conscription agents visited his home, he fled Syria and traveled through several dangerous countries to Germany.
Khankan pursued judo despite challenges, including refugee camp time. In 2013, a bombing killed a close friend, strengthening his commitment to escape and train in a safer environment.
Khankan had various problems in Germany, including a lack of training facilities and assistance. The International Judo Federation funded him after his insistence. IJF President Marius Vizer lauded Khankan’s perseverance.
Khankan now wants to compete in Paris. He thinks his narrative will prove migrants are “just normal people like everyone else.” From war-torn countries to the Olympic arena, he wants to advocate for refugees and inspire others.
Khankan wants to win a medal, but just competing in the Olympics is a win. “For me, as someone who lost almost everything, to be here now is surreal,” he adds. “I’m about to compete at the Olympics and I’m living in a safe country with opportunities – I already feel every day like I’ve won a gold medal.”

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