Born and raised in Bam, Iran, Hadi Saei pursued higher education in Physical Education at the Physical Education Faculty in Tehran. He is multilingual, fluent in Persian, Turkish, and English. His early interest in sports extended beyond Taekwondo to football and horseriding.

Career Highlights

Saei's career is marked by numerous achievements. He was named National Sportsman of the Year for 1999/2000. Notably, he became the first Iranian athlete to win an Olympic medal in a sport other than wrestling or weightlifting. His memorable sporting achievement remains his gold medal win at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Influences and Challenges

Saei credits his father and coach Saeed Mohaimen as the most influential people in his career due to their encouragement and support. Despite facing a groin strain before the 1999 World Championships in Canada, he continued to excel in his sport.

Community Involvement

In December 2003, a devastating earthquake struck Bam, registering 6.3 on the Richter scale and killing around 40,000 people. In response, Saei auctioned off his medals, including his Olympic bronze, to raise funds for the earthquake victims. This act of generosity highlighted his commitment to his community.

Other Interests

Apart from Taekwondo, Saei played football at junior and club levels in Iran. His sister Mahroz also competes in Taekwondo, showcasing a family deeply involved in sports.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Saei aims to become an Olympic champion once more and pass on his knowledge to other athletes. His dedication to both personal excellence and community service continues to inspire many.

Hadi Saei's journey from a young boy practising Taekwondo in Iran to an Olympic gold medallist is a testament to his hard work and resilience. His contributions to sports and his community make him a notable figure in the athletic world.