3 February 2025

IJF AWARDS PRESENTED IN PARIS

Paris Grand Slam 2025

IJF AWARDS PRESENTED IN PARIS

The year of 2024, an Olympic year, was truly unforgettable for judo, marked by breathtaking performances, historic milestones and new names etched into the sport’s legacy. This year embodied the essence of judo, uniting the global judo family in celebration.

In the spirit of this exceptional year, the IJF Judo Awards introduced an exciting new format. For the first time, national federations had the opportunity to submit nominees, with the judo community casting votes to determine a shortlist for each category. An expert panel from the IJF then selected the ultimate winners from these finalists. On the second day of the Paris Grand Slam, the prestigious awards were presented at the iconic Accor Arena Bercy, honouring an outstanding group of judoka, both athletes and coaches, before an appreciative crowd. The European Judo Union was able to claim a handful of the winners as its own.

Award 1: Judo for Children, presented by IJF World Promotion Director Mr Haruki Uemura.

This is one of the most inspiring categories, focusing on the future of our sport. This award recognises the exceptional efforts to inspire, guide and nurture the next generation of judoka, ensuring a lasting legacy of judo for years to come. The award was presented to Mr Stéphane Nomis, France Judo President and to Sebastien Nolesini, Director General.

This year’s finalists:

Winner: France Judo © IJF

Award 2: Coaching Achievement of the Year

This award celebrates coaches who, with their wisdom, passion and unwavering support, have guided their athletes to achieve greatness.

This year’s finalists:

Each of these coaches has provided an unrivalled environment for their athletes, creating the conditions for them to reach extraordinary levels within their sport, inspiring others as great coaches and incredible role models. All three coaches have contributed to international judo in 2024 and therefore each of them received an award according to their specific area of expertise. At this ceremony, Europe won two of the three awards.

Award 3: Rising Star of the Year, presented by IJF Director General Mr Vlad Marinescu

This award celebrates nominees who shine brightly today and hold the promise of greatness for tomorrow.

This year’s finalists:

This award recognises the extraordinary impact of this young Olympic silver medallist and his key victory against Hifumi Abe in the Olympic mixed team final.

Winner: Joan-Benjamin Gaba (FRA) © Gabi Juan

Award 4: Male Judoka of the Year, presented by Dr Toth Laszlo, IJF Vice-President and EJU President

This award honours the Male Judoka of the Year, chosen by a public vote to celebrate the pinnacle of excellence in men’s judo.

This year’s finalists:

Winner: Hidayat Heydarov (AZE) © Gabi Juan

Award 5: Ippon of the Year, presented by the IJF President, Mr Marius Vizer

What could be more thrilling than a perfectly executed throw? The nominees for Ippon of the Year embody the very essence of mastery and excellence in judo.

This year’s finalists:

Winner: Teddy Riner (FRA) for his harai-goshi in the 2024 Olympic final. © Gabi Juan

As the ceremony drew to a close and the winners received their final round of applause, it was more evident than ever that 2024 was a remarkable year for judo. From unforgettable performances to groundbreaking milestones at the Olympic Games and beyond, this year truly embodied the spirit of our sport.

Author: Szandra Szogedi