Future Aisuluu Tynybekova? Story of 14-year-old athlete conquering social media

A video of 14-year-old Kyrgyz wrestler Aruuke Askarova is capturing millions of views online, with users noting her striking resemblance to national sports icon Aisuluu Tynybekova. Many are expressing hopes that Askarova will emulate Tynybekova's legendary career. The young athlete herself credits Tynybekova as her inspiration for entering the sport and now aims for similar major victories.

Askarova, who trains professionally in Osh, has already secured a bronze medal at the Kyrgyz championship, won a tournament in Kazakhstan, earned silver in Uzbekistan, and achieved multiple podium finishes at various competitions. Her schedule is tightly packed with training and studies.

Her unexpected social media fame began after her coach, Altynai Mamarasulkyzy, posted a video. The clip gained traction after Askarova suggested filming it to help restore her coach's hacked account. In the video, Askarova, typically sporting a short haircut and athletic wear, appeared in a dress for the first time in a wrestling hall. This unusual appearance immediately drew attention, leading to the video's rapid virality. Online comments debated her gender, praised her resemblance to Tynybekova, and admired her sincerity, kind smile, and modesty.

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When she first came to me, I really thought she was a boy. Later, when I accidentally peeked into the locker room, we both had a good laugh. She just has that kind of character, that way of carrying herself.

Coach Mamarasulkyzy recalled her initial surprise, admitting she mistook Askarova for a boy upon their first meeting. "When she first came to me, I really thought she was a boy. Later, when I accidentally peeked into the locker room, we both had a good laugh. She just has that kind of character, that way of carrying herself," the coach remembered.

Originally from Chon-Alay, Askarova lives with her coach in Osh. Her parents, who work extensively, entrusted her care to Mamarasulkyzy, who oversees not only her training but also her diet, schedule, and studies. Mamarasulkyzy believes Askarova's discipline extends beyond the wrestling mat. She sees a strong parallel between Askarova and Tynybekova, noting similarities in their physique, wrestling style, discipline, academic diligence, and calm, hardworking nature. "They share not only similar figures and wrestling styles. Aisuluu eje was always disciplined, read a lot, and studied well. Aruuke is just as calm, patient, and very hardworking. She knows what she wants and goes for her goal," Mamarasulkyzy stated.

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They share not only similar figures and wrestling styles. Aisuluu eje was always disciplined, read a lot, and studied well. Aruuke is just as calm, patient, and very hardworking. She knows what she wants and goes for her goal.