Tayane Araujo and Erberth De Mesquita had another reason to celebrate after the Brazilians claimed the top accolades at the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards on Sunday night.
At a glittering ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel, Araujo was named best black/brown belt Female Player of the Year, while De Mesquita clinched the male award in the black belt.
Organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, their achievements were recognised after an outstanding season.
Araujo, 21, won gold at the London and Rio competitions of the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Tour. De Mesquita competed in all four legs of that event – winning six titles in weight and absolute categories.
It capped a remarkable 24 hours for the duo after Araujo claimed double gold (absolute and +70kg) at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Championship, while her compatriot won his 94kg division.
“It’s a very special moment for me and it’s of huge importance after the season that I had,” said Araujo.
De Mesquita, added: “I feel so happy to win this top award. It really means a lot to me. I really do have to thank the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. It’s really difficult to find a federation that really values the athletes.”
Nasser Omar Al Buraiki was awarded the best National Male Player after winning gold in Abu Dhabi, Rio, London and Tokyo.
“I’m happy I won this and it’s a big honour for me. I will work harder to get it again next season.”
Award winners also included Shefaa Moosa Hassan (female national player), Nicholas Meregali (brown belt male) and UAE-based Marcos Oliveira (male black belt master 1).
