PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 09: Faysal Sawadogo of Team Burkina Faso (red) competes with CJ Nickolas of Team United States (blue) during the Men’s Taekwondo -80kg Quarterfinal match on day fourteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Grand Palais on August 09, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

CJ Nickolas Advances to Semifinals with Impressive Victory in Men's Taekwondo at 2024 Paris Olympics

by Jose Villalpando

CJ Nickolas Advances to Semifinals with Impressive Victory in Men's Taekwondo at 2024 Paris Olympics

Paris, France – August 9, 2024 – Team USA's CJ Nickolas showcased exceptional skill and determination in the Men's Taekwondo -80kg division, securing a hard-fought victory against Burkina Faso’s Faysal Sawadogo in the quarterfinals at the Grand Palais during the 2024 Paris Olympics. With this victory, CJ Nickolas has secured his place in the semifinals against Tunisia, guaranteeing that he will compete for a medal this evening at the 2024 Paris Olympics. (Watch live on NBC’s Peacock)


In a thrilling match that kept the audience on the edge of their seats, Nickolas demonstrated his prowess and strategic acumen, winning both rounds and advancing to the semifinals.


The first round saw Nickolas take control with a series of well-executed kicks. He landed a body kick for 2 points early on and followed it up with two powerful head kicks, one at 1:01 minutes and another with just 43 seconds left, to clinch the round with a score of 7-5:


  • Kick, Body: 2 points at 1:54 minute
  • Kick, Head: 3 points at 1:01 minute
  • Kick, Head: 3 points with 43 seconds left

The second round was an intense battle as Sawadogo fought back, but Nickolas maintained his focus and composure. He scored a head kick at 1:52 minutes, a body kick with 49 seconds left, and a crucial turning kick to the body for 4 points with only 17 seconds remaining. The round ended with a close score of 10-9, securing Nickolas's victory:


  • Kick, Head: 3 points at 1:52 minute
  • Kick, Body: 2 points with 49 seconds left
  • Turning Kick, Body: 4 points with 17 seconds left

As the second round concluded, a final check by the referee confirmed a penalty against Sawadogo, cementing Nickolas's win and his advancement to the semifinals. His performance underscores his status as a formidable competitor and a key contender for a medal.


CJ Nickolas's journey continues as he prepares for the semifinals, bringing excitement and hope to Team USA and fans worldwide.


For more updates on CJ Nickolas and the Taekwondo events at the 2024 Paris Olympics, please visit www.olympics.com.