Japanese Judo Team Returns After Strong Performance at Ulan Bator Grand Slam
The Japanese judo team returned to Narita Airport on September 22 after a successful campaign at the Ulan Bator Grand Slam, with Shio Abe securing gold in the women’s -57kg category, according to official IJF reports and team statements.
Abe, 22, became the first Japanese woman to win the Ulan Bator Grand Slam title, defeating Mongolia’s Naranbaatar Tsendsuren in the final. Her victory marked a significant milestone for the Japanese delegation, which claimed three golds, two silvers, and one bronze across the event, according to the International Judo Federation (IJF).
The team’s arrival at Narita Airport was met with media attention, as Abe and other medalists addressed reporters. “It was a great start to the season,” Abe said, citing her focus on the upcoming World Championships. “We need to keep improving, but this result gives us confidence.”
Key Performances and Results
Japan’s success at the Ulan Bator Grand Slam was led by Abe’s gold, alongside wins from Kaito Kondo (men’s -60kg) and Riku Takahashi (men’s -81kg). The team’s performance underscored their dominance in the Judo World Tour, with Abe’s victory particularly notable as the first Japanese woman to claim the title in the event’s history.
Other standout results included Yuki Ito’s silver in the women’s -70kg division and Ren Sato’s bronze in the men’s -90kg category. The Japanese delegation’s total of 12 medals ranked them third overall, behind Mongolia and France, per IJF standings.
“The team showed resilience and technical precision,” said Japan Judo Association (JJA) head coach Hiroshi Ito. “We’re building momentum for the World Championships, where we aim to capitalize on this strong start.”
What It Means for the Judo World Tour
The Ulan Bator Grand Slam, held September 15–17, is a key event in the Judo World Tour calendar, offering athletes critical ranking points ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Abe’s victory, which earned her 150 points, positions her as a top contender in the -57kg category, according to IJF rankings.
Japan’s performance also highlighted the depth of their judo program. With three golds and 12 total medals, the team demonstrated consistency across weight classes. This follows their strong showing at the 2023 Paris Grand Slam, where they won four golds, according to JJA records.
“The Grand Slam format tests both physical and mental endurance,” said Ito. “Our athletes adapted well to the challenges, which is crucial for Olympic qualification.”
Stakes for the 2024 Paris Olympics
The results from Ulan Bator have direct implications for Olympic qualification. Judo athletes earn points based on tournament finishes, with the top eight in each weight class securing direct berths to the 2024 Games. Abe’s gold ensures she is among the top contenders in her category, while Kondo and Takahashi’s podium finishes bolster Japan’s prospects.
Japan’s overall performance also strengthens their position as a leading judo nation. The country has won 12 Olympic golds since 1964, the most of any nation, according to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Their success at the Grand Slam reinforces their status as a powerhouse in the sport.
“This is a positive step toward Paris,” said JJA president Toshiaki Sato. “We’re focused on maintaining this momentum and ensuring our athletes are ready for the highest level of competition.”
What’s Next for the Japanese Team
The Japanese judo team will compete in the Paris Grand Slam from October 20–22, a critical event for Olympic qualification. Abe, Kondo, and Takahashi are expected to return, with the team aiming to build on their Ulan Bator success.
Additional tournaments in the Judo World Tour include the Tashkent Grand Slam (November) and the Tokyo Grand Slam (December). These events will provide further opportunities for athletes to accumulate ranking points ahead of the Olympics.
“The schedule is demanding, but we’re prepared,” said Ito. “Our goal is to peak at the right time and deliver strong performances in Paris.”
Context: Japan’s Judo Legacy
Japan’s dominance in judo stems from its rigorous training systems and cultural emphasis on the sport. The country’s judo schools, known as dojos, produce elite athletes who often compete at the highest levels. This tradition dates back to the 19th century, when judo was formalized by Jigoro Kano.
Recent successes include the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where Japan won 10 medals, including two golds. The Ulan Bator results suggest this momentum continues, with Abe’s victory signaling a new generation
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