6 July 2025

"My commitment to judo"

Tallinn European Open 2025

"My commitment to judo"

Just one week after claiming a bronze medal at the 2025 Cadet European Judo Championships in Skopje, rising Estonian judoka Georg Nõges reached another meaningful moment in his young career. On Sunday, 6 July, at the Tallinn European Open, Nõges was formally awarded his 1st Dan black belt in front of a supportive home crowd. The belt was presented by Tina Trstenjak, Olympic Champion and IJF Referee Director, alongside Jaanus Olev, Chairman of the Estonian Judo Federation’s Dan Grade Committee.

L-R: Tina Trstenjak, Olympic champion and IJF Referee Director; Georg Nõges, cadet European Championships bronze medallist 2025 and Jaanus Olev, Chairman of the Estonian Judo Federation’s Dan Grade Committee © Rui Telmo Romão

The 17-year-old was visibly stunned by the unexpected honour.

“I’m really happy. I honestly didn’t expect this at all,” said Nõges, still processing the moment. “This year I only just got my brown belt, so I’m really overwhelmed. I have no words. I was told I had an interview… maybe a surprise. I heard something about that, but I didn’t know anything for sure. Originally, I planned to do my black belt next year. I dont know what to say, I am shocked in the best way.”

Reflecting on what the black belt symbolises to him, he added: “I think it shows my commitment to judo. It really means a lot. I’m still so surprised.”

Nõges will debut his new black belt at his next event, the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Skopje, taking place from 20 to 26 July.

Author: Szandra Szogedi