Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - Cissé Cheick Sallah, the Ivorian Olympic taekwondo medalist, officially announced his retirement from competitive sports on October 11, 2026, at a press conference in Abidjan. The event, held at the Cocody Taekwondo Temple, was attended by numerous enthusiasts and supporters of the sport. Cissé Cheick, who won an Olympic medal in 2016, expressed his gratitude to the Ivorian government, the presidents of the Ivorian Taekwondo Federation, and the media for their support throughout his career.
Cissé Cheick reflected on his decision to retire, stating that it was a well-considered choice made with serenity and a sense of accomplishment. He emphasized that taekwondo has given him valuable life lessons, including discipline, respect, patience, and humility. These values have enabled him to participate in international taekwondo instances and represent Côte d'Ivoire on the global stage. Cissé Cheick attributed his success to hard work, noting that talent alone is insufficient, and that dedication and perseverance are essential for achieving goals.
During his press conference, Cissé Cheick expressed his appreciation for the experiences he has had as an athlete, including the opportunity to represent Côte d'Ivoire and live through unforgettable moments. He emphasized that his retirement from competition does not mark the end of his engagement with taekwondo. Instead, he aims to leverage his experience to contribute to the development of the sport in Côte d'Ivoire. Cissé Cheick stated that he will focus on promoting a "united, strong, modern, and innovative" federation.
Cissé Cheick announced his intention to run for the presidency of the Ivorian Taekwondo Federation (FITKD) during the elective General Assembly scheduled for October 30, 2026. He described his candidacy as being driven by a vision for a new era in Ivorian taekwondo, with a focus on youth and innovation. Cissé Cheick emphasized that his next challenge will not be about winning medals but about promoting the sport and fostering a stronger, more united taekwondo community.
The Olympic medalist highlighted the values he has acquired throughout his career, including discipline, respect, patience, humility, and perseverance. He expressed his desire to share these values with the next generation of taekwondo practitioners. Cissé Cheick encouraged young athletes to have confidence in themselves, work hard, and persevere in their pursuit of excellence.
Cissé Cheick's transition from athlete to administrator marks a new chapter in his involvement with taekwondo. He aims to build on his achievements as a competitor and contribute to the growth and development of the sport in Côte d'Ivoire. The Ivorian taekwondo community will be watching closely as Cissé Cheick embarks on this new journey, which is expected to have a significant impact on the sport's future in the country.
As Cissé Cheick begins his new role, he will be working to promote taekwondo and develop the sport in Côte d'Ivoire. His experience as an Olympic medalist and his commitment to the values of taekwondo make him well-positioned to lead the Ivorian Taekwondo Federation and drive positive change in the sport.
Key points
- Cissé Cheick Sallah, Ivorian Olympic taekwondo medalist, announces retirement to focus on governance and development of taekwondo in Côte d'Ivoire.
- Cissé Cheick aims to become president of the Ivorian Taekwondo Federation to promote a "united, strong, modern, and innovative" federation.
- Cissé Cheick emphasizes the importance of discipline, respect, patience, humility, and perseverance in taekwondo and encourages young athletes to adopt these values.
