All this forms a spectacular and pleasant judo to watch. Let's now focus on the work of ne-waza. It is undoubtedly less aerial than the tachi-waza, but it remains for judo fans, as for all those interested in combat sports, very interesting and exciting.
A few years ago, ne-waza tended to be seen as the poorer brother of tachi-waza judo. This is no longer the case. Many athletes and their coaches have understood that a world or Olympic title can be won on the floor. Ask Lukas Krpalek (CZE) what he thinks about it. From often defensive attitudes, we are moving more and more towards offensive behaviours, risk-taking, decision-making, changes of direction, just as we observe in standing judo. Thus, we see more and more turnovers to bring the opponent on to the back for an immobilisation, or to make him or her give up. The example of Japan and particularly the women's team is eloquent. Japanese judoka win a lot on the floor. Consequently, the other nations must develop judo on the ground. Let's say it’s a win-win situation. You might lose in ne-waza but if you don't want to, you have to improve your skills.
The thing that is often striking is the simplicity with which turnovers take place. It's a bit like the simpler it is, the more effective it is. Moreover, it is not that 'it's a bit like...', it is actually the case; simplicity is not incompatible with efficiency, quite the contrary.
To obtain a result, it is not a question of agitating on the ground; it is necessary to control the points of support of the opponent. It requires energy and power, as well as precision. A missed control and it is the whole sequence that fails with the risk of being turned over by consequence but it is worth a try.
On this second day of competition, we had the pleasure of seeing situations that we like. We saw upper body and shoulder line controls before considering anything else. We saw legs being released. On the floor, there is no point in rushing, you just have to show that you are working towards a goal. As long as there is action, there is pleasure, although not necessarily for those who are underneath, and above all the referee will leave the sequence to move on.
Judo on the ground is incredibly rich. There is something for every taste. If you appreciate a beautiful uchi-mata, take the time to appreciate a nice turnover and the immobilisation that follows. It's also beautiful!