Abakarova's switch to taekwondo came after her family relocated. The new home was close to a taekwondo training centre, making it convenient for her to continue her athletic development. She attributes her nimbleness and athleticism to her genes and early childhood activities, such as playing ball games with boys in her neighbourhood.

Coaching and Training

Under the guidance of national coach Elnur Amanov, Abakarova has honed her skills and achieved remarkable success. Her dedication and hard work have paid off, leading to numerous accolades and recognition in the sport.

Awards and Honours

In 2015, Abakarova received the Taraggi [Progress] medal in Azerbaijan for winning a bronze medal at the European Games held in Baku. Two years later, she was named among the Athletes of the Year by the Association of Sports Journalists of Azerbaijan. These honours highlight her contributions and achievements in taekwondo.

Olympic Milestone

Abakarova made history by becoming the first Azerbaijani taekwondoka to win an Olympic medal. She secured a bronze medal in the flyweight category at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games. This achievement marked a significant milestone for both her career and Azerbaijani taekwondo.

Switching Allegiance

In 2013, Abakarova switched her sporting allegiance from the Russian Federation to Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani federation invited her to compete at their national championships, where she emerged victorious. Following this success, she joined a training camp and was subsequently invited to represent Azerbaijan in international competitions.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Abakarova aims to continue representing Azerbaijan on the global stage. She plans to participate in upcoming international competitions and hopes to add more medals to her collection. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in both Azerbaijan and beyond.

Patimat Abakarova's story is one of determination and resilience. From starting taekwondo at a young age to achieving Olympic success, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to her sport. As she continues to train and compete, fans eagerly await her future accomplishments.