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Shaherkhani To Become First Saudi Woman To Compete At Olympics


Saudi judoka Wodjan Shaherkhani
Saudi judoka Wodjan Shaherkhani
Judoka Wodjan Shaherkhani is set to become the first woman from Saudi Arabia to compete at the Olympic Games.

The 16-year-old will take on Melissa Mojica of Puerto Rico in the first round of the 78 kilogram event. Shahrkhani's chances are slim as she only has a blue belt after training for just two years.

Officials announced earlier this week that she will compete wearing a headscarf which meets the requirements that it does not make her vulnerable to the sport's aggressive grabs and strangleholds.

The conservative Muslim kingdom is sending its first two female Olympians to London, the other being U.S.-born and raised 800-meter runner Sarah Attar.

Qatar and Brunei have also sent women for the first time.

Based on reporting by dpa and AP

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