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Konya athlete claims four titles, European arm wrestling crown

Mustafa Altuntas poses at the recent Masters Throwing Championships in Turkey. (AA Photo)
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Mustafa Altuntas poses at the recent Masters Throwing Championships in Turkey. (AA Photo)
May 24, 2026 03:56 PM GMT+03:00

Mustafa Altuntas, a 46-year-old security officer working at the Konya Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship, claimed four first-place titles within weeks, capping a standout season with gold at the European Arm Wrestling Championship in Hungary.

Altuntas first drew attention to arm wrestling at 22, when he finished fourth at a local tournament in Konya.

That result sparked a long-running competitive career that has since produced multiple national titles and international appearances.

Mustafa Altuntas (L), stuns in a photo (AA Photo)
Mustafa Altuntas (L), stuns in a photo (AA Photo)

'These championships represent my strength'

His most recent run began in April, when he won the Turkish Arm Wrestling Championship in Yalova from April 6 to 11. He then traveled to Izmir, where on May 2 he swept three disciplines—shot put, discus and hammer throw—at the Masters Throws Turkish Championship.

The following week, competing in Hungary at the European Arm Wrestling Championship held May 8 to 20, Altuntas claimed the top spot on the podium.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Altuntas said the achievements represent a personal milestone he will carry for the rest of his life.

"These championships are a representation of my strength. My real goal is to show this unbeatable wrist on the international stage again, to reach the top in Europe and the world once more," he said.

He added that his family has shared in the sense of accomplishment and that earning a place on the national team through the Turkish championship was a significant step toward his broader ambitions.

World title next

Altuntas said he intends to continue training without pause and has his sights set on a world championship title. He paraphrased his motivation in terms of continued international competition, framing his recent victories as preparation rather than a peak.

Beyond competition, he pointed to the broader value of sport for younger generations. He said sport keeps people away from stress and urged young people to keep physical activity at the center of their lives.

May 24, 2026 03:56 PM GMT+03:00
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