As one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar, the World Judo Masters stands at the very top of elite competition. As part of the IJF World Judo Tour, alongside world championships, grand slams and grand prix, it brings together the very best judoka in the world in an exclusive, invitation-only format.
The event welcomes the top 36 ranked judoka in each weight category. With no limit per nation, it offers a unique level of competition, where the strongest athletes compete directly against each other.
The sporting stakes are significant. With 1,800 ranking points awarded to the winner, 1,260 for silver and 900 for bronze, the World Judo Masters plays a decisive role in shaping the world ranking list and the hierarchy of international judo. It is widely regarded as the ultimate gathering of the best among the best. This will be even more significant with the 2026 edition being included as a qualification event for the LA28 Olympic Games.
The choice of Dushanbe reflects the remarkable rise of judo in Tajikistan. As one of the country’s most popular sports, judo has benefited from sustained institutional support and a clear development strategy over the past two decades.
After a very first Olympic medal at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, a major milestone came at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, where Tajikistan secured two medals in judo, accelerating investment in infrastructure, education and high-performance pathways.
IJF President Mr Marius Vizer declared, “The World Judo Masters represents the very highest level of our sport, where only the best athletes in the world come together. Bringing this prestigious event to Dushanbe reflects both the remarkable development of judo in Tajikistan and our commitment to expanding the global reach of the sport. We are confident that this edition will not only deliver outstanding sporting performances, but will also inspire a new generation and further strengthen the values that unite our judo family worldwide.”
Tajik Judo Federation President Mr Ismoil Mahmadzoir said, “It is a great honour for Tajikistan and our judo community to host the 2026 World Judo Masters in Dushanbe. This esteemed event reflects the progress we have achieved in recent years and our growing role in international judo. We are committed to delivering an outstanding competition, welcoming the world’s best athletes and showcasing the spirit and passion that define our nation. We look forward to inspiring future generations and strengthening our contribution to the global judo family.”
Today, Dushanbe has established itself as a key hub for international judo. The city offers modern facilities and has earned recognition for its ability to host high-level competitions.
Since 2023, it has regularly staged IJF World Judo Tour events; the Dushanbe Grand Prix became the Dushanbe Grand Slam in 2024, now a well-established stop on the circuit. The organisation of the World Junior Championships 2024 further confirmed its status as a major host nation.
Through continued collaboration with the International Judo Federation, Tajikistan has emerged as a dynamic and reliable partner in the global development of judo. The 2026 World Judo Masters in Dushanbe promises to deliver world-class competition and will highlight the continued expansion of judo across Central Asia.
Further details regarding the event will be announced in due course.