Arsen Julfalakyan Announces Retirement from Professional Sports Career

Arsen Julfalakyan, a prominent Armenian Greco-Roman wrestler, has declared the end of his professional sports career on his Facebook page.

"And here it is… Every good thing comes to an end. I officially announce my retirement from professional sports. After 23 years, as a World and European champion, World Cup holder, and Olympic silver medalist, I have enjoyed countless incredible moments and memories. I am proud to have had the opportunity to represent the Republic of Armenia at the most prestigious international competitions, to resonate the spirit of Armenians, and to provide moments of joy and victory to thousands of my compatriots worldwide. That feeling is simply irreplaceable.

In fact, I could express a lot more, but I will limit myself to thanking everyone, with more detailed statements to come in a press conference and interviews. First of all, I thank my family and the coaches who selflessly and truly committed themselves to this demanding endeavor. These significant achievements were made possible only thanks to you. I also thank my friends who never left my side regardless of the circumstances. Of course, this circle underwent serious filtration.

Thanks to the German club KSV Aalen 05 and the French club C.P. Besançon, where I competed for a total of 9 years. Their contributions to my triumphs and successes are simply impossible to underestimate. Even more importantly, we established very warm, friendly relationships and international connections. Thanks to the Armenian Wrestling Federation, the Armenian Olympic Committee, and the late Ministry of Sport for supporting and valuing my work.

Thank you to everyone who has shared joy or sorrow in my victories and defeats. I briefly mention the detractors and slanderers. Thank you! Your actions and concern motivated me and provided the sporting aggression that sometimes may have been lacking. Keep it up!

And of course, a special thanks to the sports journalists who covered all of this. To summarize my achievements:

• ✅ Qualification for 3 Olympic Games (Beijing, London, Rio)
• ✅ Silver medal at London 2012
• ✅ 4 medals at World Championships: gold, silver, 2 bronzes
• ✅ 4 medals at European Championships: gold, silver, 2 bronzes
• ✅ Gold and bronze medals at the World Cup
• ✅ Bronze medal at the Universiade
• ✅ World Champion among youth
• ✅ Silver and bronze medals at European Championships for youth
• ✅ Double champion at European Championships for cadets
• ✅ First and second-degree medals for services to the motherland
• ✅ Yerevan State University Gold Medal
• ✅ 2012 Best Athlete of Armenia
• ✅ Honored Master of Sports

Sports journalists will be further informed of the upcoming press conference.