Mali's five youth athletes finish Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics without a medal
Five Malian athletes in five disciplines failed to reach the podium but several set new personal bests in Dakar.
Mali leaves the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games without a single medal. Its five athletes, competing in five disciplines, did not reach the podium at the first Olympic event held on African soil.
Fencer Thierno Hady Thiam, the last Malian in competition, was knocked out in the first round of the individual event. His coach, Raphaël Dembélé, praised his courage and effort despite difficulties during the competition. Athlete Awa Diarra finished last in the women's 800 metres final but cut nine seconds off her personal record. Taekwondo athlete Mariam Diallo reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated.
Judoka Moussa Koïta lost two bouts in a row in the under-55 kg category. Swimmer Younoussa Maïga improved his times in the 100 metres freestyle and the 50 metres butterfly. Mariam Diallo and Younoussa Maïga carried the Malian flag at the opening ceremony on Saturday, 31 October 2026.
Why it mattersThe athletes return home with improved personal records and experience against competitors from several countries.