Olympians condemn Iran after 'brutal' execution of wrestler Saleh Mohammadi: 'Beyond disgusted'

TEHRAN, IRAN: The alleged execution of young Iranian wrestler Saleh Mohammadi has triggered widespread outrage across the global sports community and political leaders in the US, prompting Olympians and politicians to speak out against the regime’s actions.

According to multiple reports, Mohammadi, 19, was allegedly executed on Thursday, March 19, 2026, by public hanging. The incident has drawn sharp criticism, especially from athletes who say the killing goes against everything the spirit of sports stand for.

As per Mizan news agency, Mohammadi and two other men, Mehdi Ghasemiand and Saeed Davoudi, were reportedly accused of killing two police officers during nationwide protests earlier this year.

Olympians condemn Mohammadi's 'heartbreaking' execution

Several top athletes said the news left them shaken, describing the incident as both heartbreaking and deeply disturbing.

American wrestler Brandon Slay said he felt a deep personal connection to the people of Iran and was devastated by what happened.

“As someone who has traveled to Iran for wrestling twice and welcomed Iranian athletes into our country, I’ve seen firsthand the dignity and heart of the Iranian people. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking to witness a terror regime execute a teenage wrestler,” he said.

Swimmer Tyler Clary also strongly criticized the execution, calling it a sign of the regime’s true nature. “As an Olympic gold medalist, I’ve spent my life around athletes who represent the very best of human discipline and freedom. What we’re seeing in Iran - the execution of a wrestler after what appears to be a sham process - is a brutal reminder of what that regime stands for,” he said.

Clary also backed President Donald Trump, adding, “President Trump has been clear-eyed about the nature of this regime and the need to stand up to it, and moments like this prove why that approach is necessary.”

More athletes speak out

Canadian-American bobsledder Kaillie Humphries called the actions “beyond abhorrent.” She said, “Murdering any teenager for the ‘crime’ of speaking out is unacceptable. Murdering a teenager who was specifically targeted because he is a champion athlete and icon of his country is even worse.”

American modern pentathlete Eli Bremer did not hold back either. “I’m beyond disgusted by the actions of the Iranian regime today. Murdering a teenaged iconic athlete shows how deeply depraved the Iranian leadership is,” he said, while again backing Trump’s stance against Iran.

Skeleton racer Katie Uhlaender said the news left her heartbroken. “My heart breaks for this athlete and his family. What makes this more devastating is there were clear, urgent calls for action,” she said.

American-Israeli sliding sports athlete AJ Edelman used a political tone, saying, “His sacrifice is proof that such a cause was just,” while criticizing Iran’s leadership.

Iranian wrestling figure Sardar Pashaei said the execution reflects a larger pattern. “This is only a glimpse of the regime’s brutality… We have lived under it. We carry its scars,” he said.

US politicians call out Iran over tragic execution

US lawmakers also reacted strongly, calling the execution unacceptable.

John Fetterman said, “The Iranian regime executed a 19 year old for demanding democracy. I stand with his memory and the thousands of other young Iranians.”

Rand Paul kept his reaction short but sharp, writing, “Disgusting. How long until Iranians rise up and reclaim their country...”