Afghanistan’s prominent bodybuilder Ali Bilal won the men’s physique title at the New York Pro competition in the United States on Friday night, adding another major international title to his career.
Bilal defeated the Brazilian competitor Edvan Palmeira to secure first place in the men’s open physique division at one of the sport’s most recognized professional events.
Edvan Palmeira finished second, while Isa Kesek of Indonesia placed third.
The victory marks another significant achievement for Bilal, who has emerged in recent years as one of Afghanistan’s most successful international athletes in bodybuilding.
Bilal previously won the New York Pro title and has also claimed the Arnold Classic Physique title in 2024. He was runner-up in the prestigious Mr. Olympia men’s physique competition in both 2024 and 2025.
His success has drawn wide attention among the country’s sports fans, particularly as opportunities for international competition remain limited for many Afghan athletes.
Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, Afghanistan’s sports sector has faced growing restrictions, particularly for women athletes, who have effectively been barred from all types of sports and international competition.
Male athletes, however, have continued to compete internationally in sports including cricket, mixed martial arts, taekwondo and bodybuilding.
