Ukrainian wrestler and member of parliament has a goal for Paris: ‘Show that Ukraine is still alive’

AP Sports Writer

PARIS (AP) — Ukraine wrestler Zhan Beleniuk will try to bring pride to his warn-torn country when he competes for an Olympic medal in the Greco-Roman category. He is a Tokyo gold medalist, a Rio de Janeiro silver medalist and a member of the nation’s parliament. He said training was difficult because of concerns for his safety and that of his family members. He said support from allies such as the United States has been critical to giving his nation a chance in the war. Beleniuk lost a semifinal match on Wednesday but will wrestle for a bronze medal on Thursday.