Eteri Liparteliani is the world’s number one in her category -57kg but she did not arrive at the summit of world judo overnight. In 2025, the Georgian judoka became world champion in Budapest, rose to world number one and was recognised at home as Georgia’s best female athlete across all sports, as well as the country’s best female judoka by the Ministry of Sports. Yet for Liparteliani, this year is not about a sudden breakthrough but about everything that led to it.
Liparteliani: “2025 was not just about winning titles, It was about honouring the journey, every early morning, every setback, every moment when giving up would have been easier.” Standing on the world podium was deeply emotional, because, as she puts it, “becoming World Champion showed me that patience, belief and consistency always find their reward.”
Eteri was awarded as best female Georgian athlete of 2025
A journey measured in years, not moments
That belief has been built over almost a decade at the highest level. From winning the cadet European title in 2016 to claiming the senior world title nine years later, the road has demanded endurance and trust in the process. “Winning the world title in Budapest gave meaning to every year I spent at the top level. It proved that long-term commitment and trust in the process are just as important as talent.”
Over time, the transformation has been as much internal as technical and certainly after her world title. “I became calmer, more aware and more responsible. Not only as an athlete but as a person. Today, I understand that real strength starts from within.” There was no single instant when she suddenly felt destined for world gold. “There was no one moment. The belief grew step by step, until one day I realised I am ready to carry this responsibility.”
Doubt, disappointment and rebuilding
The calm she speaks of today was earned through adversity. The most difficult period of her career came after defeat at the Olympic Games, a moment that shook her confidence deeply. “I felt that I had given so much and sacrificed so much for that medal, yet it wasn’t enough,” she admits. “For a period of time, I truly considered ending my career.”
Instead of stepping away, she chose to confront those doubts. “It was exactly in that moment that I learned discipline, patience and how to rebuild myself from the inside,” she says. That experience reshaped her mindset and reinforced the importance of patience. “I never rushed my progress,” Liparteliani adds. “I always knew my time would come.”
Living in the intensity of -57kg
Few weight categories are as demanding as women’s -57kg, and Liparteliani knows that better than most. “The category is extremely competitive. There are many strong athletes and I respect all my opponents. Each one brings a different challenge and that is what pushes me to keep improving.”
Rather than focusing on specific rivals, she prefers a simpler approach. “I focus on being better than I was yesterday,” she explains. The pace of the division leaves no margin for error. “Everything happens at high speed, physically, technically and mentally,” she says. “Small details make a big difference, so I constantly work on adapting my judo, improving my tactics and developing mentally, not just physically.”
Years of elite competition have shaped her style. “My fighting style has definitely evolved. Competing against different opponents forced me to adapt and become more versatile. Today, my judo is more complete and more controlled.”
Discipline beyond the tatami
Remaining in the same weight category for more than nine years has required daily discipline. “It is definitely challenging, it requires balance, discipline and a deep understanding of your own body. It is not just about cutting weight, it is about managing your lifestyle every day.”
With maturity, her priorities have shifted. “My approach has changed a lot. Today, health and long-term performance are my priorities, not short-term results.” That perspective shapes the advice she gives to young judoka. “Never rush your body,” she stresses. “Respect the process, listen to yourself and focus on long-term development rather than quick success.”
Pictures with her husband Temur Nozadze
Finding balance away from competition
Away from the tatami, emotional stability has become a cornerstone of performance. Her marriage to athlete Temur Nozadze has played a positive role. “It brought more emotional stability into my life. It helped me find balance and inner calm, which is very important at the highest level. I have a wonderful husband who is always by my side and helps me to be ready for anything.”
More broadly, she values the people around her. “Success at this level is impossible without people who believe in you. Especially during difficult moments.”
A new chapter for Georgian women’s judo
As the first female world champion in judo for Georgia, Liparteliani understands the wider meaning of her success. “It is a huge honour and a big responsibility. I am proud but I also feel motivated to open doors for the next generation of girls in Georgia.” There is genuine satisfaction in knowing that young athletes now grow up inspired by her achievements. “I am glad that the next generation is growing up on my achievements,” she adds.
With success has come greater attention and expectation at home. “Expectations have increased but I see this as motivation rather than pressure. It pushes me to be better every day.” Looking ahead, she is confident. “Together with my team and my family, we will be able to achieve big goals.”
Her message to young girls is simple and powerful. “Believe in yourself, even when others don’t. Dream big, work hard and never let fear stop you from chasing your goals.” She firmly believes that women’s judo in Georgia is entering a new era. “Achievements like this show that anything is possible. The federation is always on our side and with this support from the state, everything can work out.”
Increased Responsibility
Reaching the top has not dulled Liparteliani’s hunger. “Becoming world champion doesn’t mean the journey is over. It means the responsibility grows. My goals are to stay consistent, keep developing and continue representing my country with pride and dignity.”
For Eteri Liparteliani, 2025 was the confirmation of a belief carried for years and the beginning of a new chapter defined by responsibility.
Author: Hans Van Essen