Since its introduction to the programme, judo has produced unforgettable moments. Dramatic finals, breakthrough performances and powerful demonstrations of sportsmanship have all contributed to its rich legacy at the Games. As anticipation grows for the next edition in Glasgow, it is worth reflecting on some of the milestones that have shaped the sport’s journey within the Commonwealth.
Judo first appeared at the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh in 1986 as a demonstration sport. Four years later in Auckland in 1990, it was officially included as a medal event. For many nations this was a significant step. Their judoka could now compete on a stage comparable to other major multi sport competitions.
The debut tournament immediately revealed the depth and diversity of judo across the Commonwealth. England, Canada and Australia quickly established themselves among the leading nations. At the same time, the event highlighted emerging talent from Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, showing that the sport was developing strongly across the entire Commonwealth family.
The success of the Auckland competition confirmed that judo had earned its place in the Games. In the following decade, the Commonwealth Games became an important platform for athletes who would later achieve success on the world stage.
Among the most notable figures of that era was Canadian judoka Nicolas Gill, who in the same period became a world and Olympic medallist. Known for his intelligence and resilience on the tatami, Gill’s performances helped inspire a new generation of Canadian athletes while strengthening the country’s reputation as a major judo nation.
At the same time, England and Scotland produced outstanding champions who delighted home crowds and demonstrated the technical excellence of British judo. Over the years another important development became increasingly clear. Women’s judo grew in prominence and became a central part of the competition.
Female judoka have delivered some of the most exciting and technically impressive contests in Commonwealth Games history. Nations such as England, Australia, Scotland and Canada have produced exceptional champions whose achievements helped accelerate the growth of women’s judo across the Commonwealth.
Buy tickets: CLICK HERE
One of the most memorable moments came at the Glasgow Games in 2014. Scotland’s Kimberley Renicks won the nation’s first Commonwealth Games gold medal in judo in the -48 kg category. Soon afterwards, her sister Louise Renicks captured gold in -52 kg. Together they became known as the Golden Sisters and played a major role in Scotland’s successful judo campaign.
The Glasgow Games also demonstrated how competitive the sport had become, with medals shared across an increasing number of nations. In recent editions, countries from Africa and Asia have produced athletes capable of challenging the traditional powerhouses, raising the overall standard of the competition.
Before the next edition begins in Glasgow, England leads the all time medal table with fifty five medals, followed by Scotland with thirty five and Canada with twenty nine. In total, twenty one countries have won medals in judo at the Commonwealth Games so far.
With ticket sales now open, fans can look forward to another exciting chapter. The next edition promises world class action, spectacular ippon and new champions ready to make their mark on the tatami. For many athletes, the Commonwealth Games represent not only the pursuit of medals but also the chance to inspire the next generation and celebrate the enduring values of judo.