A 21 year-old gymnast from Azerbaijan landed the worlds first full “full” this year at the World Games in Chengdu, China
Title: Azerbaijani Gymnast Makes History with World’s First Full “Full” at Chengdu World Games
Meta Description: Discover how Tofig Aliyev, a 21-year-old gymnast from Azerbaijan, stunned the world by landing the first-ever full “full” tumbling pass at the 2023 World Games in Chengdu, China.
A Gymnastics Revolution: Azerbaijani Athlete Lands Unprecedented Skill in Chengdu
In a jaw-dropping moment at the 2023 World Games in Chengdu, China, 21-year-old Tofig Aliyev from Azerbaijan etched his name into gymnastics history. Competing in the tumbling discipline, Aliyev executed the world’s first successful full “full”—a triple-twisting double back somersault—a skill so daring that it redefined the boundaries of the sport.
The Pioneering Moment
During the tumbling finals at Chengdu’s Sichuan Gymnasium, Aliyev launched himself down the 25-meter runway with explosive power. His final pass—a triple-twisting double back somersault (officially termed the “full full”)—left judges and spectators in awe. The skill involves two backflips combined with three full rotations in the air, demanding unparalleled precision, height, and spatial awareness.
Until now, no athlete had ever cleanly landed the pass in international competition. Aliyev’s flawless execution earned him a near-perfect execution score and a standing ovation, cementing his reputation as a trailblazer in gymnastics.
“This skill was a dream I’ve trained for since I was a child,” said Aliyev after his gold medal win. “To achieve it on a stage like the World Games is surreal.”
Why the “Full Full” Changes the Game
Tumbling, a discipline within gymnastics, focuses on high-flying acrobatic passes performed on a spring runway. Skills are graded on difficulty (“D-score”) and execution (“E-score”). The triple-twisting double back—a rarity due to its complexity—carries one of the highest difficulty values in the sport.
Aliyev’s success pushes the envelope for future competitors. Coaches and gymnasts worldwide are calling the feat “a quantum leap in tumbling,” with predictions that it will inspire a new generation of athletes to attempt ever-more complex skills.
Who Is Tofig Aliyev?
Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, Aliyev began gymnastics at age 6, drawn to the sport’s blend of power and artistry. Despite limited funding for gymnastics in Azerbaijan, he trained relentlessly, catching the eye of international coaches at junior competitions. His rise mirrors Azerbaijan’s growing influence in gymnastics, a country better known for wrestling and weightlifting.
Aliyev’s trajectory has been meteoric:
- 2018: Silver medal at the Junior European Championships.
- 2021: Ranked 4th at the World Championships.
- 2023: Gold at the World Games, plus viral fame for his groundbreaking skill.
Impact on the 2023 World Games
The World Games, held every four years, showcases non-Olympic disciplines like tumbling, muay thai, and dragon boat racing. Aliyev’s historic moment stole headlines, drawing global attention to the event and elevating tumbling’s profile—a win for both the gymnast and the sport.
“Tofig didn’t just win gold; he advanced the entire discipline,” said FIG tumbling committee head Sophie Diaz. “This is a milestone akin to the first triple axel in figure skating.”
What’s Next for Aliyev and Gymnastics?
With the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon (where tumbling isn’t contested), Aliyev now eyes the 2024 World Championships in tumbling and the 2025 European Games. His success could also pressure the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to consider adding tumbling to future Olympic programs.
Meanwhile, gymnasts worldwide are dissecting videos of his pass, eager to replicate it. “Innovation is contagious,” says U.S. coach Derek Davis. “Aliyev just set the bar—literally and figuratively.”
Conclusion
Tofig Aliyev’s full “full” at the Chengdu World Games wasn’t just a victory—it was a paradigm shift for gymnastics. By defying gravity and expectations, the 21-year-old from Azerbaijan proved that limits are meant to be shattered. As tumbling evolves, one thing is certain: Aliyev’s name will forever be synonymous with courage, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
Keywords: Tofig Aliyev Azerbaijan, World Games Chengdu 2023, full full tumbling, triple-twisting double back, gymnastics world record, tumbling history, groundbreaking gymnastics skills.
