The Judo Tokyo Grand Slam 2024 is set to witness some high-octane encounters on the mat as world’s top judokas converge for the prestigious competition.
Following a thrilling Olympic experience at Paris 2024, 286 judoka from 47 nations will take part at the Judo Tokyo Grand Slam, taking place from 7-8 December in the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.
The competition will be headlined by world and Olympic champions.
Judo Tokyo Grand Slam 2024: Athletes To Watch Out For
Host country Japan has a line of strong judokas, led by top seed Sanshiro Murao in the -90kg division. Murao won a silver medal at the Paris 2024 and is the reigning Tokyo Grand Slam champion. He will be looking to defend his title and end the year on a high note.
Italy’s Christian Parlati and Brazil’s mixed team Olympic bronze medallist Rafael Macedo are the other athletes to watch out for.
Portugal’s Patricia Sampaio headlines the field in the 78kg category. She won a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Sampaio will lock horns with Japanese stalwart Hamada Shori, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion, and Umeki Mami, one of the favourites in the division.
Koga Wakana is the top contender in the lightweight women category -48kg, along with reigning -52kg Asian champion, Bishrelt Khorloodoi.
In the men’s -73kg category, Ishihara Tatsuki and Hashimoto Soichi are the flag bearers for the home country that boasts strong contenders Judo Tokyo Grand Slam 2024.
Home favourite Hashimoto won an individual Olympic bronze and mixed team silver this year in Paris adding to his glittery medal cabinet.
Nagayama Ryuju is another top contender on the home turf. He has been a dominant force in the 60kg events. He has bagged an Olympic bronze, a world title, 11 Grand Slam golds, and three Masters wins in his decale-long career so far. Top seed Lee Harim of the Republic of Korea might pose a threat to his title contention.
Also Read: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Judo?
Judo Tokyo Grand Slam 2024: Schedule
7 December:
- Men: -60 kg, -66 kg, -73 kg
- Women: -48 kg, -52 kg, -57 kg, -63 kg
8 December:
- Men: -81 kg, -90 kg, -100 kg, +100 kg
- Women: -70 kg, -78 kg, +78 kg
