Tunisian Weightlifter Karam Ben Hnia Announces Retirement

Tunisian weightlifter Karam Ben Hnia has announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 31. In a Facebook post, Ben Hnia stated that it was time for him to pass the torch to future generations. He had a 20-year career, during which he represented Tunisia in various international competitions, including Arab, African, Mediterranean, World, and Olympic events. Ben Hnia expressed his pride in defending Tunisia's flag and thanked his fans for their support.

Throughout his career, Ben Hnia accumulated an impressive collection of 128 medals, consisting of 77 international and 51 national medals. He also won 10 awards as the best African and Mediterranean athlete. Some of his notable achievements include winning a silver medal in the snatch and clean and jerk events at the 2013 Mediterranean Games in Mersin, Turkey. He also won a bronze medal in both events at the 2018 Mediterranean Games in Tarragona, Spain.

Ben Hnia's achievements also include winning a gold medal in the clean and jerk and a bronze medal in the snatch at the 2022 Mediterranean Games in Oran, Algeria. In 2020, he won two gold medals and a silver medal at the World Cup for seniors in Rome, Italy. Additionally, he dominated the African continent, winning 26 gold medals and one silver medal at the African Championships for seniors. He also won six gold medals at the African Games for seniors in Brazzaville, Congo, in 2015, and Rabat, Morocco, in 2019.

Ben Hnia participated in several international competitions, including the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, Tokyo in 2020, and Paris in 2024. His best finish at the World Championships for seniors was fourth place at the 2023 edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He also finished fifth at the 2015 World Championships in Houston, United States, and the 2024 World Championships in Manama, Bahrain.

Ben Hnia's retirement marks the end of an era for Tunisian weightlifting. He was known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Tunisian weightlifters. Ben Hnia's contributions to the sport have earned him a place in the hearts of fans and supporters around the world.

The 31-year-old weightlifter's decision to retire was not taken lightly. He has been a prominent figure in Tunisian sports for over two decades and has inspired many young athletes. Ben Hnia's achievements serve as a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. His retirement will be felt by fans and supporters, but his legacy will continue to inspire others.

As Ben Hnia begins his new chapter, he will be remembered for his remarkable achievements in weightlifting. His contributions to the sport have been invaluable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes. Ben Hnia's retirement marks the end of a successful career, but his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.

Key points

• Karam Ben Hnia accumulated 128 medals throughout his career, including 77 international and 51 national medals.