The opening day of the European Judo Championships Veterans Riga 2025 saw non-stop action across the M5–M9 categories. By sunset, France had surged to the top of the medal table with an impressive haul of 10 gold, 8 silver, and 12 bronze medals. Germany followed with 6 gold, 5 silver and 9 bronze, while Spain secured third place with 3 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze. In total, 16 nations each claimed at least one gold, and athletes from 27 countries made it onto the podium.
Farhad Rajabli (M8, -90kg) proudly raised the Azerbaijan flag once again, delivering a breathtaking uchi-mata in the final to secure his 11th veteran European title. The 65-year-old judoka shared his joy afterwards:
“I am very happy, everything went as I hoped. I had three fights today, and each one was strong in its own way. I felt well-prepared, and the final was especially memorable. I have been doing judo non-stop since I was 12 years old and what keeps me motivated is simple: it’s been a part of my life for so long, it’s who I am. Now, my nephews wait eagerly for every new medal, sometimes I think they are even happier than I am with these medals. Someone also once called me a ‘judo ambassador’ on Facebook, maybe that’s true but I don’t do this for fame, I do it for the love of judo and for my country. I always represent my country with pride. Judo is not easy, especially with age, but it has given me everything: it helped me get into university, through military service, and guided me throughout my life. It’s always pointed me in the right direction and I am very thankful for that.”
The man of the hour, Hendrik Koppe of the Netherlands (M7, +100kg), claimed his 13th European title today, bringing his total to an impressive 13 veteran European and 13 veteran World titles. Naturally, he will be competing in Paris at the veteran World Championships later this year, but for now, he reflected on today’s performance:
“Here we are, lucky number 13 in both the Europeans and Worlds. That’s 26 total now, which is kind of wild when I think about it. Today went really well, despite coming in with a twisted calf from deadlifting. I recovered in time and felt fit overall. The matches went smoothly, and I am happy, especially because this year was a big improvement from last. Last year was rough. This time we had more friends on the tatami, more familiar faces. Four matches, good fights, it felt right.
“I have been doing this a long time, since 2008, and it is amazing to see how the veteran Europeans have developed. Nearly a thousand people here, it is incredible. I am a bit disappointed I was the only Dutch competitor, but we are working on ways to increase participation. Paris worlds will likely bring more. Honestly, if you love judo and train regularly, there’s no reason not to enjoy both randoris and shiais. It gives you something to work towards.
“These days I train four or five times a week, judo, power training, cycling and I still work two days a week in finance and give judo lessons. I have also become a grandfather, she is almost three, and I will be taking her to her first judo sessions soon.“
Germany’s Olaf Rodewald had a breakthrough moment as, after several world medals, he finally claimed his first continental title in the M7 -90kg category. The 59-year-old was, to say the least, was absolutely thrilled;
“My feeling is super! I have been to many Europeans, only ever left with a 7th place. As per the worlds I had gold, silver and bronze but finally, now I have the gold from the Europeans! The fights today were amazing, I felt great… Judo is one big family. Maybe not my family by blood, but still, I am part of it. That is the best thing, travelling, fighting, and celebrating together. And this medal? I dedicate it to my other half, she has supported me every step of the way.”
Day two will feature all bouts in the M3–M4 divisions, along with the Ne-waza competition for M1–M3 and F1–F3. Watch the action live at judotv.com.
Author: Szandra Szogedi