Judo is a Japanese martial art and Olympic sport that captures the attention of millions of people around the world for its elegance, efficiency and philosophy. There are many amazing facts hidden in this sport, and its outstanding athletes and memorable victories make it truly unique.

1. History and philosophy

• Origin: Judo was created in Japan in the late 19th century by Master Jigoro Kano based on traditional Japanese martial arts.
• Philosophy: The basis of judo is the principle of “self-overcoming” (jita kyoei) and “mutual benefit” (jita kyoei), which implies the pursuit of perfection, both physical and spiritual, as well as concern for the well-being and development of society.

2. Outstanding athletes

1. Tezuhiko Kawamura: Japanese judoka who won 5 gold medals at the Olympics and became one of the most successful judokas in history.
2. Renato Lara: Brazilian judoka who won 3 gold medals at the Olympic Games and became one of the most respected and famous athletes in the judo world.
3. Ryuko Tamura: Japanese judoka who dominated women’s judo in the late 20th century, winning 4 Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships.

3. Memorable victories

• Haruki Umeno: At the 2004 Athens Olympics, Haruki Umeno became the first Japanese man to win a gold medal in judo in the over 100 kg category.
• Ilias Iliadis: Greek judoka who became the youngest world champion in 2010 at the age of 17 years and 9 months.

4. Women’s judokas

• Kaeori Matsumoto: Japanese judoka who became the first woman in history to win a gold medal at four Olympic Games (2008, 2012, 2016, 2020).
• Teddy Riner: French judoka who won 5 Olympic gold medals and 14 world championships, becoming one of the most successful athletes in judo history.
• Lucia Palmisano: Italian judoka who has won 3 Olympic medals and 8 world championships and is recognized as one of the most technical and effective judokas in the world.

Conclusion

Judo is not only a sport, but also a philosophy that attracts people with its beautiful and effective fighting style. Female judokas such as Kaeori Matsumoto, Teddy Riner and Lucia Palmisano are proving that women can be as successful and influential in the sport as their male counterparts.