European wrestling gold medallist Taha Akgul has revealed that he felt extra pressure to win this year, after his victory against Belarus's Aleksai Shemarov in the 125kg freestyle final.
The Turkish athlete repeated his success over Shemarov in last year's World Championship semi-finals, and believes that it was easier this year.
He told reporters: "It was easier for me to beat him tonight than in the world championship because I was extra motivated. I was appointed an Athlete Ambassador for these Games. That increased my responsibility, so I dared not lose."
The 24-year-old added that he is already looking ahead to next summer's Olympic Games, which could be his final event.
"Now I want to win an Olympic medal next year. Then I will retire and become a coach or administrator. I have more to give to wrestling," he said.
Turkey currently sit sixth in the medal table.
Written by
Charlie Bennett
Charlie Bennett
