Tervel Zamfirov Makes History with Bulgaria’s First World Title in Olympic Snow Winter Sports
Engadin, The Gulf Observer: Tervel Zamfirov, a 20-year-old Bulgarian athlete, has made history by securing Bulgaria’s first-ever world title in Olympic snow winter sports. Zamfirov triumphed in the men’s parallel slalom at the World Championships in Engadin, defeating Austria’s Arvid Auner in the final by 0.40 seconds.
Zamfirov’s journey to the title was marked by a series of tense and fiercely competitive matches. In the round of 16, he faced Germany’s Ole-Mikkel Prantl, initially trailing by nearly half a second at the first control. However, Zamfirov’s impressive speed in the lower section secured him a narrow 0.09-second victory. In the quarterfinals, he battled German world vice-champion Stefan Baumeister in a side-by-side contest, ultimately prevailing by just 0.11 seconds.
The semifinal against Italy’s Aaron March proved equally challenging, as Zamfirov once again found himself behind at the intermediate checkpoint. Yet, his remarkable recovery in the final stretch ensured a 0.13-second win, propelling him to the championship final against Auner. In the decisive race, Zamfirov delivered a stellar performance, claiming the historic title for Bulgaria.
Despite his remarkable victory, Zamfirov revealed that he was not in peak physical condition during the competition. Speaking to BFSki, he disclosed that he had been battling an illness and was on antibiotics in the days leading up to the event. Uncertain whether he would be able to participate, Zamfirov demonstrated extraordinary determination and strength to secure the title.
The triumph was celebrated by Tseko Minev, President of the Bulgarian Ski Federation, who commended Zamfirov’s groundbreaking success and emphasized the growing prominence of Bulgarian athletes in snowboarding and winter sports this year.
In the women’s parallel slalom, Japan’s Tsubaki Miki claimed the world champion title, defeating Czech competitor Ester Ledecká in the final. The bronze medal went to Dutch snowboarder Michelle Dekker, completing a remarkable championship event.
