French-Armenian karate athlete Monica Arzumian celebrated her 19th birthday with a gold medal on October 4, winning the women’s under-61-kilogram kumite title at the Karate One Series A tournament in Salzburg, Austria.
Monica Arzumian, a talented French-Armenian karate athlete, marked her 19th birthday in style on October 4, 2026, by clinching the gold medal in the women’s under-61-kilogram kumite category at the Karate One Series A tournament held in Salzburg, Austria. This victory not only celebrates her birthday but also highlights her remarkable skills in a sport that demands both physical prowess and mental agility.
In the final match, Arzumian faced Germany’s Mia Bitsch, triumphing with a score of 5-1. Her journey to gold was bolstered by a dominant semifinal performance, where she secured a decisive 9-0 victory over Anna Rodina. These accomplishments are a testament to Arzumian’s dedication and hard work, making her a formidable competitor in the karate world.
Currently ranked No. 3 in the senior world rankings for her weight class, Arzumian continues to solidify her status as an elite athlete. She has an impressive track record, having previously won the junior world championship in 2024 and the junior European championship in 2025, both in the under-59-kilogram division. Additionally, she secured gold at the Karate One Premier League tournament in Rabat, Morocco, earlier this year.
Arzumian’s journey in karate began at the tender age of eight, inspired by a family legacy in the sport, with her father practicing karate in Armenia. Her achievements reflect her commitment and passion for karate, promising an exciting future ahead in the sport.