Team Jamaica Taekwondo secured a hard-won Bronze Medal through the skill and temerity of 15-year-old athlete Daniel Balli at the 2026 Canada Open G2, held in Calgary from February 26-28. 

Competing against a formidable international field, Balli’s podium finish marks a significant milestone for Jamaican Taekwondo on the world stage. Balli’s path to the podium began with a dominant performance in the Round of 16, where he defeated Canada’s Jordan Yee with a decisive 2-0 victory. 

He continued his momentum into the Quarterfinals, facing another top-tier Canadian athlete, Brayden Voung, in a high-stakes match. Demonstrating exceptional resilience and tactical skill against Voung, Balli pulled out a narrow 2-1 round victory to guarantee himself a medal.

In the semifinals, Balli faced Damien Buenaventura, a tough opponent from Team USA. Despite a spirited effort, Balli dropped the first round 5-3 and the second 14-4, ultimately concluding his impressive run with a well-earned Bronze Medal. Balli shared the third-place position with Canada’s Jacob Moreault, who was also defeated in the Semi-Final round.

Growing strength of Jamaican Taekwondo

Balli’s coach, Master Antwaun Wilson, comments, “Daniel’s performance in Calgary is a testament to his dedication and the growing strength of Jamaican Taekwondo. Earning a medal at a G2-ranked event is a major achievement that provides momentum as we look toward the rest of the 2026 season.”

Looking ahead to the 2026 US Open Championships scheduled for March 5-8 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Wilson says there is no rest for the elite, as Balli is already preparing for his next major challenge. The US Open is one of the most prestigious events in the sport and in the Pan-American Taekwondo Union (PATU)Region.

An elated Tracey Balli, mother of the Florida-based bronze medallist, commends Balli’s hard work and determination, which will take him through to the next tournament, adding, “We have watched Daniel pour his heart and soul into this sport, making so many sacrifices, and we could not be prouder of him. This podium finish proves that if you have faith, work hard enough and stay hungry, you can achieve your goals.”