This year's event carries a special meaning as it marks the beginning of the Olympic qualification period for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. More than 800 athletes, coaches and officials from 62 countries gathered at the Steppe Arena, where the journey towards the next Olympic dream officially began.
Opening the ceremony on behalf of the President of Mongolia, Mr Uilstuguldur Altankhuyag, Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of Mongolia, highlighted the wider role of sport in society. "Physical education and sport not only develop physical fitness, but also cultivate moral values, perseverance, courage, patriotism, an active lifestyle, harmony and a spirit of teamwork." He also emphasised the remarkable growth of judo in recent decades, describing it as: "Valuable heritage that nurtures physical strength, mental discipline and moral character in an holistic manner."
The second speaker, Mr Purevdagva Byaruuzana, Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, welcomed the international judo family to the Mongolian capital and underlined the country's commitment to the sport. He recalled that Mongolia had successfully hosted IJF grand prix events from 2012 to 2016 and has proudly welcomed the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam since 2022.
He reminded the audience that, "Judo is not only a sport of strength and skill, but also one that upholds the values of discipline, respect, perseverance and integrity." Looking towards the future, he expressed his confidence that the next generation of Mongolian champions would emerge from the children and young people watching this tournament today.
The final speaker, Mr Naser Al Tamimi, General Treasurer of the International Judo Federation, addressed the audience on behalf of the International Judo Federation and its President, Mr Marius Vizer, and marked the close relationship between the global judo family and Mongolia, which this year celebrates its 55th anniversary of the official development of judo in the country.
This relationship between Mongolia and judo can be felt everywhere, from the youngest children discovering their first movements on the tatami to all the spectators filling the Steppe Arena. Throughout the two days of competition so far, the passion of the Mongolian public has demonstrated the unique bond between a nation and its sport.
Mongolia's judo history has been built through dedication, discipline and dreams. The country's first Olympic gold medal in judo at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games remains a defining moment, inspiring generations of young Mongolians to believe that through determination and hard work, the biggest goals can be achieved.
As the road towards Los Angeles 2028 has now officially opened, no-one knows what stories will eventually be written. The journey will be long, demanding and filled with challenges. Yet under the Eternal Blue Sky, in a country where judo has become part of its cultural identity, the first chapter of a new Olympic adventure has already been written.