The Cuban-born wrestler, now a naturalized Chilean, Yasmani Acosta, expressed his profound gratitude to the people of Chile for welcoming him. He shared his recently won medal from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and greeted President Gabriel Boric with an unforgettable hug.
This week, the government of Chile organized an official reception at La Moneda to honor their two Olympic medalists, Francisca Crovetto and Yasmani Acosta. Acosta, who secured a silver medal in the 130-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling category, expressed his indebtedness to Chile for the support he has received since arriving in 2015 after leaving a Cuban sports delegation.
"Since I arrived in Chile, everything has been happiness," Acosta declared, highlighting the affection and support of the Chilean people. "I worked very hard, but without the support of the Chilean people, this would not have been possible. I wanted to gift a medal to this country. This medal is not mine; it belongs to all of you," he affirmed.
The athlete's speech was brief but emotional. It also had a surprising touch as it was President Boric himself who held the microphone for Yasmani, given that the wrestler's height exceeded the mic stand. Yasmani Acosta faced his compatriot and friend Mijaín López in the final match at Paris 2024, where López won with a 6-0 score, securing his fifth Olympic title.
Acosta celebrated his silver medal as a collective triumph, embracing President Boric in a gesture that elicited laughter and surprise from the audience, showcasing the admiration and camaraderie between them.
Yasmani Acosta's Olympic Journey and Impact on Chile
Here are some frequently asked questions about Yasmani Acosta's Olympic success and his relationship with Chile.
How did Yasmani Acosta become a naturalized Chilean?
Yasmani Acosta became a naturalized Chilean after arriving in Chile in 2015, following his departure from a Cuban sports delegation.
What medal did Yasmani Acosta win at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games?
Yasmani Acosta won a silver medal in the 130-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling category at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Who did Yasmani Acosta compete against in the final match at Paris 2024?
Yasmani Acosta competed against his compatriot and friend, Mijaín López, who won the match with a score of 6-0.