Rio 2016: Kuwaiti marksman becomes first stateless athlete to win gold medal
The Olympics has seen its first ever independent gold medal winner, after Fehaid Al Deehani won the men's double trap
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Kuwait's Fehaid Al Deehani, competing as an independent, has captured men's double trap gold by defeating Italy's Marco Innocenti in the final match.
With Kuwait suspended by the IOC, Al Deehani and seven other athletes were allowed to compete as independents in Rio.
The veteran of six Olympics needed a shoot-off with American Joshua Richmond to get into the finals, but hit 28 targets to reach the gold medal match against Innocenti.
A proud officer in the Kuwait army, Al Deehani dropped to the ground and kneeled after reaching the final, then pounded his chest as he walked away.
In the gold medal match, Al Deehani hit 26 targets and Innocenti 24. Al Deehani raised his arms in triumph after hitting the final two targets, then turned and again pounded his chest at the crowd.
Al Deehani became the first Kuwaiti athlete to win an Olympic medal with a bronze at Sydney in 2000 and added another in London four years ago.
Steven Scott hit all 30 targets to defeat Great Britain shooter Tim Kneale for the bronze medal.
AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments