Last day of Judo All Japan Invitational Weight Category Championship (April 7, 2024 Fukuoka International Center)
Naori Hamada wins the women’s 78 kg class final (Photo by Riko Hirashima)
Photo By Sponichi
A total of seven classes for men and women competed to coincide with the World Championship (Abu Dhabi) selection event in May, and Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Naori Hamada (Self-Defense Forces) won the women’s 78 kg class for the fourth time in two years. He has not won an international tournament since the Tokyo Olympics, and this is his first domestic title in two years. She said, “It’s been a long time since she hasn’t won. She’s the happiest I’ve ever been.” She openly shed tears.
Although he was unbeatable when it came to ground fighting, after the Olympics his markings became tougher and he had a series of matches where he was unable to achieve his best form. He failed to medal at the World Championships in 2022 and 2023, and missed out on the Paris Olympics. Still, he has a strong desire to continue as an athlete, saying, “The Olympics aren’t my motivation. I wanted to win again.” He entered this tournament without hesitation. “He was able to show his best side for the first time in a while,” he said in a choked voice.
He is certain to be included in the world championship team for the third consecutive year, and will now focus on the fight to regain the world title. “I want to do my best to win again,” he says, refocusing on the battle in front of him.
Show more
2024-04-07 10:54:21
#JudoTokyo #Olympics #Queen #Naori #Hamada #tearful #comeback #happiest #selection #weight #class #championship #Sponichi #Sponichi #Annex #Sports
