Famous Azerbaijani Sportspersons

Teimour Radjabov is an Azerbaijani chess grandmaster known for his exceptional talent and achievements in the world of chess. He gained early recognition as a former child prodigy, becoming one of the youngest grandmasters in history. Over the years, Radjabov has solidified his status as an elite player by defeating top-ranked opponents and achieving impressive ratings. He has participated in multiple prestigious tournaments, including the Candidates Tournament, and has secured victories in various championships and events, showcasing his remarkable skills and strategic prowess.

Jaycee Carroll is a former American-born naturalized Azerbaijani professional basketball player known for his scoring prowess, shooting ability, and endurance. He represented the senior Azerbaijani national team and played college basketball for the Utah State University Aggies. Carroll holds the 2nd highest 3-point field goal percentage in NCAA Division I history, and is the Aggies' all-time scoring leader with 9 other school records. He finished his college career with the 14th most 3-pointers made and 52nd most points scored in NCAA DI history.

Shaquielle McKissic is a professional basketball player known for his versatility and athleticism. He plays for Olympiacos in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. McKissic's career has been marked by his ability to contribute in various aspects of the game, including scoring, rebounding, and defense. His strong work ethic and determination have helped him succeed at the professional level, earning him a reputation as a valuable asset to his teams. McKissic continues to showcase his skills and make an impact on the court.

Shakhriyar Mamedyarov is an accomplished Azerbaijani chess grandmaster, currently holding the title of Azerbaijan's highest-rated player as of December 2023. With a personal best rating of 2820, he ranks as the sixth-highest-rated player in chess history. Mamedyarov has participated in multiple prestigious events, including the Candidates Tournament and securing notable placements. His impressive career highlights include being a two-time World Junior Champion, a World Rapid Champion, and a gold medalist at the Chess Olympiad. Additionally, he has achieved success in various tournaments, showcasing his exceptional skills and strategic prowess in the world of chess.

Anna Pavlova is a retired Russian-born artistic gymnast who achieved success in international competitions. She won two bronze medals at the 2004 Olympic Games and also competed in various other prestigious events. Known for her balletic style and clean technique, Pavlova was a standout performer in the gymnastics world. She later represented Azerbaijan and continued to excel, winning a silver medal at the 2014 European Championships on vault. Pavlova retired from competitive gymnastics in 2015 at the age of 28.

Alim Nabiev is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani kickboxer who has been competing professionally since 2010. He is renowned for his skills in the ring, having held the title of WMC World Light Heavyweight champion. Nabiev's impressive rankings in the welterweight division by reputable sources such as Combat Press and Beyond Kickboxing reflect his exceptional talents and dedication to the sport. Throughout his career, he has consistently maintained a top position globally, showcasing his prowess and determination in the competitive world of kickboxing.

Jordan Deangelo Davis is a professional basketball player with experience in the German Basketball Bundesliga. He played for Hamburg Towers before establishing himself as a standout player in college basketball at the University of Northern Colorado. In 2019, he earned recognition as the Big Sky Conference Player of the Year, showcasing his talent and skills on the court. His successful collegiate career has paved the way for a promising professional journey, highlighting his potential for further achievements in the world of basketball.

Zabit Samedov is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani kickboxer and muay thai fighter, known for winning numerous titles throughout his career. His notable achievements include clinching the K-1 World Grand Prix 2009 in Łódź tournament championship and competing in the K-1 World Grand Prix FINAL in Zagreb final 8. Samedov is also recognized as a former It's Showtime 95MAX World Championship challenger. With a current ranking of #5 in the heavyweight category by Combat Press as of July 2021, he continues to be a dominant force in the world of combat sports.

Chingiz Allazov is an accomplished Belarusian kickboxer known for his impressive career achievements. With a professional career spanning since 2009, he has secured numerous prestigious titles, including the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion and the 2021 ONE Kickboxing Featherweight World Grand Prix Winner. Allazov has also held titles such as the K-1 Super Welterweight Champion and the WAKO-Pro K-1 rules champion. Regarded as the world's best lightweight and pound for pound kickboxer, he continues to dominate the sport with his exceptional skills and determination.

Ekaterina Ryabova is a retired Russian-Azerbaijani figure skater known for representing Azerbaijan in women's singles. Throughout her career, she has achieved notable success, including winning medals at various international competitions such as the CS Denis Ten Memorial Challenge and the CS Ice Star. She has also secured titles like the Ice Star champion and the Azerbaijani national champion. Ryabova's impressive performances have earned her a solid reputation in the figure skating world, currently ranking as the 13th highest-ranked ladies figure skater globally by the International Skating Union.

Mariya Stadnik is a highly accomplished Ukrainian-born Azerbaijani female wrestler. Throughout her career, she has achieved significant success, winning four Olympic medals, two World Championships, and ten European Championships. Stadnik's dominance in the sport has solidified her reputation as one of the top wrestlers in the world. Her impressive track record of victories at prestigious competitions highlights her exceptional skill, dedication, and perseverance as an elite athlete in the realm of women's wrestling.

Toghrul Asgarov is an accomplished Azerbaijani wrestler, known for his success in freestyle wrestling. He has achieved significant milestones in his career, including winning Olympic and European championships in his weight category. His remarkable victory at the 2012 Summer Olympics, where he secured a gold medal by defeating a Russian opponent, showcased his exceptional skills and determination. Despite facing challenges such as a doping violation, which led to a temporary disqualification, Asgarov remains a prominent figure in the world of wrestling, admired for his talent and achievements.

Zeynab Javadli is a former Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnast known for her exceptional performance and competitive success. She has achieved notable accolades in various international tournaments, including multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals. Javadli has showcased her talent and skill in prestigious competitions like the European Championships and World Club Championships, consistently demonstrating her prowess in rhythmic gymnastics. Her dedication to the sport has earned her recognition as a skilled athlete and a respected figure in the gymnastics community.

Gunay Mammadzada is an accomplished Azerbaijani chess player holding the titles of International Master (IM) and Woman Grandmaster (WGM) through FIDE. She has won multiple youth championships and national titles, represented Azerbaijan in various prestigious chess events, and achieved significant milestones in her career, including becoming the youngest WGM in Azerbaijan's history at 14. With a peak FIDE rating of 2483 and notable victories against high-rated players, Mammadzada is recognized as a talented and successful chess professional on the global stage.

Milad Beigi Harchegani is an accomplished taekwondo practitioner, originally from Iran and later naturalized as an Azerbaijani athlete. He achieved notable success in various international competitions, including winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Beigi's talent and skills were recognized when he won the gold medal in the -80 kg category at the 26th Fajr Cup. Despite facing challenges and controversies, such as being replaced in the 2015 World Taekwondo Championships, he continued to excel and was named the Male Most Valuable Player at the 2015 World Cup Team Championships.

Boyanka Kostova is a professional weightlifter who represented Azerbaijan at the 2012 Summer Olympics in the women's 58 kg category, achieving a commendable fifth-place finish. She has demonstrated exceptional strength and skill in the sport, showcasing her dedication and prowess on the international stage. Kostova's commitment to weightlifting has earned her recognition as a talented athlete, inspiring others with her performances and achievements in competitions. Her professional journey is marked by perseverance, hard work, and a competitive spirit that drives her to excel in her field.

Marina Sergeyevna Durunda is a retired Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnast who achieved success in her senior career starting in 2013. She emerged as a leader in Azerbaijani gymnastics, winning three national championships from 2013 to 2015. Durunda also secured a bronze medal at the 2015 European Championship and a silver medal at the inaugural 2015 European Games. She represented Azerbaijan at the 2016 Rio Olympics, finishing 9th in the all-around final.

Patimat Abakarova is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani taekwondo athlete, representing her country at various prestigious international competitions since 2013. She has consistently demonstrated her skill and determination, earning impressive accolades such as a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and a silver medal at the European Championships in the same year. Additionally, she secured bronze medals at the 3rd Islamic Solidarity Games in 2013 and the 1st European Games in 2015, showcasing her talent and competitive spirit on a global stage.

Turkan Mamedyarova is an accomplished Azerbaijani chess player with a successful professional career. She holds the titles of Woman International Master (WIM) and Woman Grandmaster (WGM). Mamedyarova has represented Azerbaijan in various prestigious chess championships, including the European Youth Chess Championships, World Youth Chess Championships, and Women's Chess Olympiads. She has also claimed victories in the Azerbaijani Women's Chess Championships and other notable tournaments. With a strong background in competitive chess, Mamedyarova continues to showcase her skills and talent on the international chess circuit.

Rafael Fiziev is a highly skilled professional mixed martial artist and Muay Thai fighter from Azerbaijan. Competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), he has showcased exceptional talent and technique in the octagon. As of December 5, 2023, Fiziev holds the impressive ranking of #8 in the UFC lightweight division. Known for his striking abilities and dynamic fighting style, Fiziev continues to captivate audiences with his performances and remains a formidable force in the world of MMA.

Rafael Aghayev is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani karateka known for his exceptional skills in kumite. With a remarkable track record, he has achieved great success in his career, including winning silver at the 2020 Summer Olympics. A five-time world champion and eleven-time European champion, Aghayev's expertise in karate is widely recognized. He is currently signed with Karate Combat, where he holds the welterweight title and boasts an impressive 5-0 record, showcasing his dominance in the sport.

Magomed Ibragimov is a highly accomplished wrestler of Avar descent, known for his participation in multiple Olympic Games. He began his Olympic journey representing Azerbaijan in 1996, finishing fifth in the freestyle 82 kg event. In 2000, he switched his allegiance to Macedonia and secured a bronze medal in the freestyle 85 kg competition, making history as the first medalist for his country. Despite a less successful outing in 2004, he remains a respected figure in the wrestling community.

Ramil Guliyev is a successful sprinter representing Turkey. He specializes in the 100 meters and 200 meters events, having achieved notable success on the international stage. Guliyev made history by becoming the World Champion in the 200 meters at the 2017 World Championships, securing Turkey's first gold medal in the competition. He is associated with Fenerbahçe Athletics and continued his winning streak by claiming the gold medal in the 200 meters at the European Championships in 2018.

Arkadij Naiditsch is a seasoned chess grandmaster with a diverse professional background. He has represented multiple countries throughout his career, including Latvia, Germany, Azerbaijan, and currently Bulgaria. Naiditsch has demonstrated his exceptional skills and strategic prowess in numerous international chess tournaments. His adaptability and success in various settings reflect his strong dedication to the game and his continuous pursuit of excellence. Naiditsch's impressive track record and experience make him a formidable competitor on the global chess circuit.

Nijat Rahimov is a weightlifter originally from Azerbaijan who later became a naturalized Kazakhstani athlete. He achieved success in weightlifting competitions, winning a gold medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in the 77 kg category and setting a new world record with a clean and jerk lift of 214 kilograms. However, his career has been marred by doping controversies, including suspensions and the stripping of medals due to the use of banned substances. Despite his achievements, his legacy is tarnished by these doping scandals.

Haji Aliyev is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani freestyle wrestler with a remarkable career spanning several years. He has secured multiple gold medals in prestigious events such as the European Wrestling Championships and World Wrestling Championships. Aliyev has also demonstrated his talent in the Olympic Games, earning bronze medals in both the 2016 Summer Olympics and the 2020 Summer Olympics. Known for his skill and determination, Aliyev continues to excel in international competitions, securing quota places for Azerbaijan in major sporting events like the Summer Olympics.

Sharif Sharifov is a retired Russian-Azerbaijani wrestler of Avar descent who has achieved significant success in his career. He has won gold at the 2012 Summer Olympics in the 84 kg event, defeating Jaime Espinal. Additionally, he earned a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics by beating Bi Shengfeng and Zbigniew Baranowski before losing to Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Sharifov's accomplishments also include finishing first in the World Championships and winning a bronze in the European Championships, showcasing his skill and dedication to the sport.

Parviz Abdullayev, also known as Cobra Parviz, is a distinguished Azerbaijani kickboxer with an impressive professional career. He has earned the title of honored Sport Master of Azerbaijan and is renowned for his remarkable achievements in the sport of kickboxing. Abdullayev has secured the title of six-time world champion in professional kickboxing, showcasing his exceptional skill and dedication to his craft. His success in the ring has solidified his reputation as one of the top kickboxers in the world, inspiring admiration and respect from fans and peers alike.

Vladimir Andreevich Makogonov was a highly respected Soviet chess player and coach, known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the game. He achieved the title of International Master in 1950 and was later honored with the title of Grandmaster in 1987. Makogonov's talent and strategic prowess made him one of the world's strongest players in the 1940s. Despite not gaining widespread recognition outside the Soviet Union, he left a lasting impact on the chess world through his achievements and expertise.

Albert Selimov is a renowned Russian former amateur boxer of Lezgin descent. He gained fame for being the sole individual to defeat Vasiliy Lomachenko in amateur competition. Throughout his career, Selimov achieved significant victories including winning the 2007 world title, the 2008 World Cup, and securing two European titles in 2006 and 2010. Following his move to Azerbaijan after missing the 2012 Olympics, Selimov continued to excel, finishing as the runner-up at the 2015 World Championships and placing fifth at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Magomedrasul Majidov is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani professional boxer known for his successes in the super heavyweight division. Transitioning from a successful amateur career where he won medals at prestigious events like the Olympics and World Championships, Majidov has continued to showcase his talent and skill in the professional boxing world. With a strong track record of victories and a reputation for his boxing prowess, he has established himself as a formidable force in the professional boxing scene.

Valeri Belenki is a retired Azerbaijani artistic gymnast known for his participation in the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics. Throughout his career, he showcased exceptional skill and dedication to the sport, earning recognition as a highly accomplished gymnast. Belenki's performances on the international stage highlighted his precision, strength, and artistry, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike. His legacy in gymnastics is marked by his impressive achievements and contributions to the sport, solidifying his reputation as a respected and talented competitor.

Khetag Gazyumov is a retired freestyle wrestler of Ossetian origin who competed for both Russia and Azerbaijan. He excelled in the 96 kg weight category, winning bronze medals at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics, as well as a silver at the 2016 Rio Games. Throughout his career, he also secured numerous gold and silver medals at European and world championships between 2009 and 2014, as well as a gold at the 2015 European Games. Gazyumov faced challenges due to a cardiac arrhythmia but continued to compete at a high level.

Evans Kiplagat Chebet is a highly accomplished Kenyan long-distance runner known for his success in road races. He has achieved significant victories in prestigious marathons, including the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, and the World Marathon Majors. Chebet has consistently performed well in various international races, showcasing his talent and determination. His impressive achievements include setting personal best times and winning races against strong competition. Chebet's dedication to his sport and consistent success make him a respected figure in the world of long-distance running.

Rustam Orujov is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani retired judoka who has had a successful career in the sport. He competed at various levels, starting from youth competitions to senior tournaments, where he gradually moved up weight categories. Throughout his career, Orujov achieved significant milestones including winning medals at prestigious events such as the Olympics, World Championships, European Championships, and European Games. He received recognition for his achievements, including being awarded the Order "For Service to the Fatherland III degree."

Polina Rahimova is an accomplished Azerbaijani indoor volleyball player known for her outstanding performance both at the club and national team levels. She currently plays for the Brazilian club SESI/Vôlei Bauru, showcasing her skills on the court. Rahimova made headlines in December 2015 when she set a world record by scoring an impressive 58 points in a single match during her time in Japan. Her remarkable talent and dedication to the sport have solidified her reputation as a top player in the world of volleyball.

Ali Isaevich Isaev is a Russian-Azerbaijani professional mixed martial artist and former amateur wrestler. He competes in the Heavyweight division of Bellator MMA, having previously fought for organizations like Fight Nights Global and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Isaev achieved success in the PFL by winning the 2019 Heavyweight Tournament Championship. Additionally, he represented his country at the 2008 Summer Olympics in men's freestyle wrestling at 125 kilos, showcasing his skills on an international stage.

Radik Isayev is a highly accomplished taekwondo practitioner with a string of impressive victories to his name. He has secured numerous gold medals at prestigious events such as the European Championships, the Summer Olympics, and the European Games. Radik has also excelled at the World Championships, clinching both gold and bronze medals. His consistent success on the international stage has solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor, earning him the title of European and World Cup Champion multiple times. Additionally, he triumphed at the Islamic Games in 2017, further cementing his status as a top athlete in the sport.

Nik Caner-Medley is a retired Azerbaijani-American professional basketball player known for his successful career. He made a name for himself playing college basketball at the University of Maryland for four seasons. After college, he transitioned to the professional basketball scene where he showcased his skills and talent. Throughout his career, Caner-Medley played for various teams, leaving a lasting impact on the sport with his dedication and contribution to the game.

Rovshan Bayramov is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani wrestler, known for his expertise in Greco-Roman wrestling. With a remarkable career spanning several prestigious championships, Bayramov has secured numerous accolades, including two Olympic silver medals. His impressive track record includes being a European and world champion in his field. Notably, he clinched the gold medal at the 2011 World Wrestling Championship in Istanbul, further solidifying his status as a top-tier athlete. Bayramov's success is further underscored by his two European titles, highlighting his consistent excellence in the sport.

Teymur Mammadov is a highly accomplished heavyweight amateur boxer from Azerbaijan. He has achieved significant success in various international competitions, including winning bronze at the 2012 Olympics and reaching the quarterfinals at the 2016 Games. Mammadov has also secured silver and gold medals at the World and European Amateur Boxing Championships, demonstrating his skill and determination in the sport. His transition to the light heavyweight division proved successful, culminating in a gold medal at the 2015 European Games.

Samira Arastunovna Mustafaeva is a renowned rhythmic gymnast from Russia and Azerbaijan. Throughout her career, she achieved multiple medals at the World Team Championships, demonstrating her exceptional talent and skill in the sport. She attained the title of "Master of Sport" in Russia, signifying her high level of proficiency. Mustafaeva started her career with the Azerbaijani national team before transitioning to represent Russia at the international level. Her impressive achievements and contributions have solidified her status as a world-class gymnast recognized by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). She retired from professional rhythmic gymnastics in 2013.

Aliya Garayeva is a retired Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnast who had a successful career representing both Russia and Azerbaijan. She achieved notable accomplishments such as winning the World All-around bronze medal in 2011, as well as two European All-around bronze medals in 2010 and 2012. Garayeva also secured two Grand Prix Final All-around bronze medals in 2007 and 2011, along with five Azerbaijani National champion titles. Trained by renowned coach Irina Viner, she is considered the most successful rhythmic gymnast in Azerbaijani history.

Cristina Iovu is a well-known weightlifter who has competed in various international championships representing different countries. She has faced multiple suspensions and disqualifications due to testing positive for prohibited substances like Oxandrolone and Dehydrochlormethyltestosterone. Despite these setbacks, she has achieved success in competitions such as the European Weightlifting Championships and the World Weightlifting Championships, where she has won medals. However, her career has been marred by controversies surrounding doping violations, leading to bans imposed by the International Weightlifting Federation.

Rauf Mamedov is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani chess grandmaster, having achieved the prestigious title of three-time national champion. He has showcased his exceptional skills on the international stage by participating in the FIDE World Cup multiple times, specifically in the years 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2015. Mamedov's professional career is characterized by his strategic brilliance, tactical acumen, and consistent performance at high-level tournaments, solidifying his reputation as a formidable force in the world of chess.

Islam Abbasov is a prominent Azerbaijani Greco-Roman wrestler known for his achievements in international competitions. He secured a spot at the 2020 Summer Olympics after qualifying at the European Qualification Tournament in 2021. Throughout his career, he has earned medals at prestigious events such as the Wladyslaw Pytlasinski Cup and the European Wrestling Championships. Despite facing setbacks, like not qualifying for the 2024 Summer Olympics, Abbasov continues to showcase his talent and dedication to the sport on a global stage.

Namig Abdullayev is a retired Azerbaijani freestyle wrestler with an impressive career. He achieved significant success at various international competitions, including winning a gold medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics and multiple gold and silver medals at European and world championships. Abdullayev also participated in three Olympic Games, showcasing his dedication to the sport. His achievements highlight his skill and determination as a top athlete in the wrestling world. Abdullayev's contributions have left a lasting impact on Azerbaijani wrestling history.

Jabrayil Hasanov is a highly accomplished male freestyle wrestler from Azerbaijan, known for competing in the 66, 74, and 79 kg categories. He has achieved remarkable success in various prestigious competitions, including winning an Olympic bronze medal and multiple medals at World Championships. Hasanov has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout his career, consistently performing at a high level in international tournaments. With notable victories and podium finishes, he has solidified his reputation as a top athlete in the world of freestyle wrestling.

Lorenzo Sotomayor Collazo is a Cuban-born Azerbaijani light-welterweight boxer who achieved success by winning a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics. In a strategic move to enhance his Olympic prospects, he relocated from Cuba to Azerbaijan in 2013. He competes under the name Collazo, signifying "shining star". Known for his skill and dedication to the sport, Sotomayor has earned recognition for his impressive performances in the boxing ring, solidifying his status as a formidable athlete in the professional boxing world.

Orkhan Safarov, an Azerbaijani judoka, has established himself as a formidable competitor in the sport. His achievements include winning a bronze medal at the 2013 World Judo Championships in the -60 kg category. In 2021, Safarov showcased his skills at the Judo World Masters in Doha, Qatar, competing in the men's 66 kg event. With a track record of success on the international judo stage, Safarov continues to impress with his talent, determination, and passion for the sport.

Elina Danielian is a prominent Armenian chess grandmaster with numerous accolades to her name. She has excelled in various championships, including winning the European Women's Rapid Chess Championship and the European Individual Chess Championship. Danielian has represented Armenia multiple times at the Women's Chess Olympiads and achieved success in team competitions, such as the gold medal-winning performance at the Women's European Team Chess Championship. Her skills were further highlighted by victories in World Under-14 and Under-16 Girls Championships, showcasing her talent and expertise in the chess world.

Zeinab Mamedyarova, an Azerbaijani chess player, is a distinguished figure in the world of chess, holding the prestigious FIDE title of Woman Grandmaster (WGM). With remarkable skill and strategic prowess, she has made significant contributions to the chess community. Mamedyarova's professional journey is marked by numerous accomplishments, demonstrating her dedication and talent in the realm of competitive chess. Her expertise and achievements have solidified her reputation as a respected and formidable presence in the international chess arena.

Natalya Mammadova is a retired Ukrainian and Azerbaijani volleyball player known for her exceptional skills as an outside hitter. She is regarded as one of the best players of her generation and the most successful Azerbaijani volleyball player. Representing the Azerbaijan national team from 2004 to 2018, Natalya holds a significant record for the most capped players in the country's history. In May 2021, she announced her retirement from volleyball, concluding a remarkable professional career marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the sport.

Elnur Mammadli is a highly accomplished Azerbaijani judoka known for his success in the sport. He achieved a significant milestone by winning the gold medal in the ‍–‍73 kg division at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he emerged victorious in the final against the favored opponent, Wang Ki-chun. This victory solidified Mammadli's reputation as a skilled and determined athlete within the judo community. His achievements continue to inspire aspiring judokas and showcase his dedication to excellence in the sport.

Emin Mahmudov is a prominent Azerbaijani professional footballer known for his role as a midfielder and captain of Neftchi Baku in the Azerbaijan Premier League and the national team. He has gained recognition for his exceptional skills on the field, earning the title of player of the year in Azerbaijan for consecutive years in 2021 and 2022. Mahmudov's leadership qualities and impressive performances have solidified his reputation as a key player in both club and international football, making him a respected figure in the Azerbaijani sports scene.

Spencer Howells Nelson is a former professional basketball player who excelled at both small forward and power forward positions during his career. Standing at 6'8", he was primarily known as a power forward. Nelson's professional journey was marked by his time playing in various basketball leagues. He showcased his skills on the court with his versatility and physical presence, leaving a lasting impact in the basketball world. Nelson's contributions as a player have solidified his place in the realm of professional basketball.

Vladimir Andreyevich Litvintsev is a highly accomplished figure skater representing Azerbaijan in men's singles. He has secured notable achievements in various competitions, including becoming the champion of the 2018 Volvo Open Cup and the 2019 Open Ice Mall Cup. Additionally, Litvintsev earned the silver medal at the 2018 Ice Star competition. His professional career reached a significant milestone when he represented Azerbaijan at the 2022 Winter Olympics, where he demonstrated his skill and finished 18th overall.

Inna Valeryevna Ryskal was a prominent Soviet volleyball player who trained at VSS Neftchi in Baku. She played a crucial role in the dominance of the Soviet Union women's national volleyball team in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Ryskal's achievements include winning multiple Olympic gold and silver medals, as well as triumphs in the FIVB Women's World Championship and the European Volleyball Championship. Her outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized with prestigious awards such as the Order of the Red Banner of Labour.

Nijat Abasov is an accomplished Azerbaijani chess grandmaster known for his exceptional skills on the board. With a peak rating of 2679 in October 2023, he solidified his position as one of the world's top players, ranking No. 58 globally. Abasov's professional journey has been marked by numerous victories and impressive performances in prestigious chess tournaments. His strategic prowess, tactical acumen, and dedication to the game have earned him a reputation as a formidable competitor in the world of chess.

Sviatlana Makshtarova is a talented Belarusian-Azerbaijani synchronised trampoline gymnast with a successful career in international competitions. She made the decision to change her nationality from Belarusian to Azerbaijani in 2014, enabling her to represent Azerbaijan at various events. Makshtarova has competed in world championships and prestigious competitions such as the Trampoline World Championships and the European Games, earning medals including a silver at the World Games in 2017. Her achievements highlight her skill and dedication to the sport, solidifying her reputation as a top athlete in the field.

Vugar Gashimov was a highly skilled Azerbaijani chess grandmaster known for his expertise in blitz chess. He achieved a peak ranking of No. 6 in the world in November 2009. Throughout his career, he achieved notable successes such as winning the Athens 2005 tournament and tying for first place in events like the Cappelle-la-Grande Open in 2007 and 2008. In 2010-11, he emerged victorious at the prestigious Reggio Emilia tournament. Gashimov's professional career was marked by impressive performances and a strong presence in the international chess scene.