Annie Ramirez wins third straight Asian Beach Games gold for team Philippines 

Team Philippines continued its strong showing in the 2026 Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, securing its third gold medal of the competition behind another stellar performance from Annie Ramirez.

The reigning Asian Games champion once again proved her dominance on the sand, capturing the gold medal in the women’s -57 kilogram division of jiu-jitsu on Friday, April 24, at the Athletes’ Village competition venue. Ramirez defeated fellow Filipina Emily Thomas via advantage in an all-Philippine final, ensuring that the country would take both the gold and silver medals in the division.

The victory marked a historic milestone for Ramirez, as she clinched her third consecutive Asian Beach Games gold medal, having previously topped the podium in the 2014 and 2016 editions. Her sustained excellence across multiple cycles underscores her status as one of the Philippines’ most accomplished combat sports athletes.

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Despite the lopsided result in the final, Ramirez’s road to the championship was anything but easy. She was tested in the semifinal round by Mongolia’s Shurentsetseg Ehnkhmunkh, engaging in a tightly contested bout that went the full five-minute duration. Ramirez ultimately prevailed, 5–2, using her experience and tactical discipline to pull away in the latter stages and secure her place in the gold medal match.

Reflecting on her victory, Ramirez emphasized both the significance of the achievement and the unique circumstances of facing a compatriot in the final.

𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗲 🔥🥇

In an all-Filipino final bout against Emily Thomas, the two-time world jiu jitsu champ Annie Ramirez propelled Team Pilipinas into its third gold medal at the 6th Asian Beach Games (ABG) in Sanya, China. pic.twitter.com/JYajhYHQTE

— Philippine Sports Commission (@psc_gov) April 24, 2026

“It’s a big thing that Emily and I were able to close out the division, so it helped lessen the anxiety – especially with everything that happened earlier and the delay. At least whoever won, it’s still a win for the Philippines. I’m very blessed and so happy. It’s one of the rarest things to achieve as a national athlete, so I’m grateful to everyone who helped me,” Ramirez said after winning the gold.

The all-Filipino final highlighted the depth of talent within the country’s jiu-jitsu program, with both Ramirez and Thomas showcasing high-level technique and composure under pressure. While Ramirez ultimately extended her reign, Thomas’ silver medal performance signaled the emergence of another strong contender for the Philippines in future international competitions.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino was present at the venue and witnessed firsthand the Filipinas’ dominance in the division. He praised both athletes for their efforts and competitiveness on the international stage.

“Emily wanted the gold for herself and the country, and she fought like a champion. While Annie remains the queen of this mat, we believe Thomas’ time is coming. That resilience and hunger – that’s the true spirit of being a Filipino athlete,” Tolentino added.

With Ramirez’s triumph, the Philippine jiu-jitsu team concluded its Asian Beach Games campaign with an impressive haul of two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze. The result further cements the country’s reputation as a rising force in the sport across Asia.

Looking ahead, Ramirez is set to defend her title in the upcoming Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, later this year. With her current form and proven track record, she will once again be among the favorites to deliver gold for Team Philippines on an even bigger stage.

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