This year’s edition of the junior worlds has been rich in lessons and discoveries. We have seen a new generation of judoka, men and women alike, ready to commit fully to the highest level of the sport. Technically and tactically, the juniors demonstrated that they already possess the tools to step onto the World Judo Tour confidently, with many having already done so successfully. Indeed, the standard in Lima was so high that even established senior athletes would have found it difficult to dominate.
As the medals were tallied, Japan once again lived up to its reputation as the benchmark of judo excellence. The nation’s ability to produce beautiful, efficient and technically refined judo continues to inspire admiration. Generation after generation, new Japanese judoka arrive on the circuit, keeping the spirit of dynamic, spectacular and pure judo alive.
Other major nations also confirmed their strength, with Brazil and Georgia once again featuring among the top performers. Meanwhile, rising countries, such as Tajikistan, proved that their steady progress in recent years is no accident; Muhiddin Asadulloev’s gold in the -73 kg category was a powerful statement of intent.
Some athletes stood out particularly for their maturity and presence, such as Switzerland’s April Lynn Fohouo, who claimed the -70 kg title with style and confidence. Others marked the emergence of nations on the rise, eager to find the spark that will propel them to the next level. India, for instance, took a major step forward, thanks to Linthoi Chanambam’s bronze medal and Nungshithoi Chanu Leishangthem’s fifth place, both performances that warmed hearts across the judo world.
The bronze medal of Jonathan Yang (USA), already a cadet world champion, also carried special significance for Pan-American judo, particularly with the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games on the horizon.
Summing up such an event is never easy, as every bout tells a story within the larger story, a glimpse of a bright future for world judo. What is certain is that Lima has offered us a true showcase of talent, passion and promise. Now, our attention turns to the mixed team world title, where teamwork, spirit and national pride will take centre stage.
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