The -60kg category was established in the Paris World Judo Championships in 1979, and fuelled by competition on home soil, France’s Thierry REY became the first World Champion of the weight class. Since then, two bronze medals have been won by Patrick ROUX in 1987 and Philippe PRADAYROL in 1991, and today Romain VALADIER PICARD added himself to the history books by claiming his place in the final against two-time World bronze medallist, NAGAYAMA Ryuju (JPN).
I started well, but Nagayama was stronger and better than me today. I always believe him to be the best judoka in the world and I think he should have been World and Olympic Champion already.
Valadier Picard is always gracious in victory or failure, but this silver medal was no failure. He is now part of French history, which in this category doesn’t have the depth of others.
Of course I am disappointed, I am happy I was in the final, but my goal is only ever a gold. I was actually just happy to be back as my goal was to be fit to compete here. After fighting in Paris I had a really bad injury that required surgery and my focus was to compete at the World Championships, so to have such a strong day and return on this level is good but next time, I want the gold. In the French training centre, your face only goes on the wall if you are a champion. I was so close.
Though there was almost an emotional break, Valadier Picard is a man of composure and reiterated that his efforts were strong, but he is now going to have to accept this silver and come back stronger next time.
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen