In a groundbreaking move, the IJF introduced a new format for the awards, allowing national federations to nominate candidates. The judo community then voted to shortlist nominees for each category, with an expert panel selecting the ultimate winners.
The ceremony saw deserving recipients honored across various categories:
1. Judo for Children Award:
Winner: France Judo
Recognizing efforts to inspire and nurture the next generation of judoka, France Judo’s initiatives in creating 300 dojos for children in underprivileged neighborhoods stood out as a testament to the future of the sport.
The award was presented to Mr Stéphane Nomis, France Judo President and to Sebastien Nolesini, Director General, by IJF World Promotion Director Mr Haruki Uemura
2. Judo for Peace Award:
Winner: Roberto Orlando and Judo for Peace South Africa
Acknowledging initiatives that promote education and unity through judo, Roberto Orlando and Judo for Peace South Africa were recognized for their exceptional contributions beyond competition.
The award was presented to Nicolas Messner, IJF Judo for Peace Director and co-director of the programme, on behalf of Roberto Orlando by IJF Vice President and President of the AJU Mr Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko
3. Moment of the Year Award:
Winner: Diyora Keldiyorova
Diyora Keldiyorova’s remarkable victory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games captured the essence of triumph and values that elevate judo to a truly extraordinary level.
The award was presented to Diyora Keldiyorova by IJF Secretary General Dr Lisa Allan
4. Coaching Achievement of the Year:
Notable coaching achievements were celebrated, with Baptiste Leroy (FRA) for the team Coaching Achievement of the Year, Marko Spittka (UZB) for Coaching Achievement of the Year (female), and Richard Trautmann (AZE) for Coaching Achievement of the Year (male).
The first award was presented by IJF General Treasurer Mr Naser Al Tamimi to Baptiste Leroy (FRA), for his leadership guiding the French men’s team to 10 Olympic medals at the Paris 2024 Games.
The second award was presented by IJF Vice President and President of the JUA Mr Obaid Al-Anzi to Marko Spittka (UZB), for leading Diyora Keldiyorova to Uzbekistan’s first Olympic gold in judo.
The third award was presented presented by IJF Coaching and Education Director Mr Mohamed Meridja to Richard Trautmann (AZE), for Hidayat Heydarov and Zelym Kotsoiev making history, both winning world and Olympic titles in a single year.
5. Rising Star of the Year:
Winner: Joan-Benjamin Gaba (FRA)
Joan-Benjamin Gaba’s promising talent and impactful performance, including a key victory in the Olympic mixed team final, earned him the prestigious Rising Star of the Year award.
The award was presented by IJF Director General Mr Vlad Marinescu
6. Female Judoka of the Year:
Winner: Christa Deguchi (CAN)
Christa Deguchi’s excellence in women’s judo was acknowledged with the Female Judoka of the Year award, reflecting her outstanding achievements in the sport.
The award was presented by IJF Vice-President and PJC President, Mr Carlos Zegarra Presser, to Canada’s Head Coach, Antoine Valois-Fortier on behalf of Christa Deguchi.
7. Male Judoka of the Year:
Winner: Hidayat Heydarov (AZE)
Hidayat Heydarov’s exceptional contributions to men’s judo earned him the Male Judoka of the Year award, recognizing his pinnacle of excellence in the sport.
The award was presented by Dr Laszlo Toth, IJF Vice-President and EJU President.
8. Ippon of the Year:
Winner: Teddy Riner (FRA)
Teddy Riner’s impeccable harai-goshi in the 2024 Olympic final was celebrated as the Ippon of the Year, embodying mastery and excellence in judo.
The award was presented by the IJF President, Mr Marius Vizer.
The JUA extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to the values of judo. Their achievements are a testament to the vibrant judo culture and serve as an inspiration to aspiring judokas across the world.
As the JUA continues to promote and develop judo in Asia, we look forward to seeing more Asian judokas shine on the global stage. Together, we will strive to uphold the spirit of judo and foster unity, respect, and excellence in our sport.
Photos credit: IJF