With the European Championships in Tbilisi fast approaching, few names resonate quite like Lukáš Krpálek. A double Olympic champion who has succeeded across two weight categories, the Czech heavyweight continues to compete at the highest level, driven not by past success but by a clear sense of purpose, one that increasingly centres on inspiring the next generation to believe in longevity, discipline and the value of persistence.
In this conversation, Krpálek speaks openly about how his journey has evolved, the responsibility he carries and the motivation that still pushes him onto the tatami each day.
Q: You have achieved everything in judo, including two Olympic titles. What still drives you each day?
Lukáš Krpálek: Even after everything I have achieved, I still feel a strong desire to continue and prove that it is still possible to fight for the highest medals. What motivates me is the process itself, improving, pushing my limits and proving to myself that I can still compete with the best. Representing my country and inspiring younger athletes also gives me great fulfilment.
Q: Has your relationship with judo changed over time?
LK: Yes, significantly. At the beginning, it was mainly about winning and proving myself. Today, judo is part of who I am. It has shaped my personality, discipline and mindset. I now see it as a lifelong journey rather than simply a sport.
Q: What currently gives you the greatest sense of purpose?
LK: The joy of what I do, combined with the belief that long-term hard work and consistency truly matter. I want to show younger athletes that success is not only about talent but about persistence and the right mindset.
Q: What does the European Championships represent to you at this stage?
LK: The European Championships are always special. Whenever possible, I always try to compete.
Q: You already hold European titles. What would another mean now?
LK: Earlier, it was about achieving something new. Now, it is about showing the younger generation that even at my age, it is still possible to fight for top medals. My goal is to motivate young athletes in my country.
Q: How do you maintain hunger as a proven champion?
LK: It comes down to humility. Past achievements do not win current matches. Every day I remind myself that everything must be earned again. Experience helps but hunger has to be maintained consciously.
Q: Has your approach to competition evolved?
LK: Definitely. I am calmer and more patient now. Tactically, I rely more on experience and reading my opponents. Mentally, I feel stronger because I have been through many situations.
Q: You are a role model. Does that influence how you compete?
LK: Very much so. Young athletes watch not only how I win but how I behave in difficult moments. It motivates me to act professionally and with respect, both on and off the tatami.
Q: What challenges keep you engaged today?
LK: It is both physical and internal. Physically, maintaining a high level becomes more demanding with age but increasingly, the challenge is internal, sustaining motivation, discipline and mental strength after achieving so much.
Q: What ambitions still excite you?
LK: I want to enjoy competitive judo for as long as possible. Beyond that, passing on my experience and motivating younger athletes is something I truly value. Seeing their enthusiasm also motivates me to continue.
In Tbilisi, Krpálek will not be chasing legacy, that, he had already secure. Instead, he returns to the tatami with the desire to lead by example. With purpose refined by experience and a champion’s mindset that refuses to settle, he is showing the next generation what is still possible through persistence, discipline and belief.
Author: Szandra Szogedi