Haruka Kajime secured her second 63-kilogram world title on May 7 at the World Judo Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, defeating an Israel competitor by ippon in the final. Japan’s national coaching staff and match records confirmed the victory, which marks the first time a Japanese judoka has defended this specific weight division crown since Yoshie Ueno accomplished the feat at the 2010 Tokyo World Championships.
Baku World Championships Victory
Kajime’s path to the gold medal ran through a demanding bracket at the Baku tournament. After dropping her first-round point battle, the reigning champion relied on her signature groundwork and refined standing techniques to advance. In the final bout against her Israeli opponent, Kajime secured a yuko throw before immediately transitioning to a hold, locking down a Tate-Shiho-Gatame pin to seal the victory. The win contributed to a dominant stretch for the Japan women’s team, who captured four consecutive gold medals starting from the 48-kilogram division.
Targeted by International Opponents
Entering the tournament as the defending champion carried entirely different pressures compared to her breakthrough performance the previous year. Kajime noted that international rivals have adjusted their tactics against her. Opponents at Grand Slam events and world competitions now study her habits closely, a shift she acknowledged following her matches in Baku. As the reigning titleholder, she wore the designated red back-number reserved exclusively for the reigning world champion, turning away a succession of challengers who came prepared for her style.
Training Routine Noted by Coaches
All-Japan women’s coach Maki Tsukada highlighted Kajime’s relentless work ethic during the team’s summer training camp. Tsukada observed that Kajime routinely vanished during midday breaks to complete additional conditioning sessions, returning to the mat drenched in sweat. Insisting that she maintains her club’s strict training routine, Tsukada praised the athlete’s dedication, describing her mindset as operating on an otherworldly level for a top-tier competitor.
Focus on the Next Opponent
Despite holding the red back-number and facing intense study from the rest of the 63-kilogram division, Kajime maintained a pristine international record through the Baku tournament. Addressing her approach to maintaining momentum, Kajime stated that dwelling on an undefeated streak makes an athlete hesitant and defensive, which is why she deliberately avoids thinking about records and focuses entirely on defeating the opponent immediately in front of her.
Related reading
