Diyora Keldiyorova, the first Olympic judo champion in Uzbekistan’s history, returns to international competition after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus at the Judo Asian Open Cup in Aktau, Kazakhstan. The tournament marks her first public appearance wearing the golden emblem of a reigning Olympic champion on her kimono since her historic victory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Return to the Tatami in Aktau
The competition in Aktau serves as Keldiyorova’s official reentry into the sport following an extended absence. Ukrainian sports portal Judo Art highlighted the significance of her return, describing it as the primary attraction of the tournament and noting that her presence alone makes the event worth following from start to finish. The Asian Open Cup provides an immediate competitive test as the athlete begins preparations for a new Olympic cycle under the guidance of her coaching staff.
Paris Gold and the Path to Motherhood
Keldiyorova secured her status in Uzbek sports history at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by winning the gold medal in the women’s 52 kg division. In the tournament final, she defeated Distria Krasniqi of Kosovo. Following her victory in the French capital, Keldiyorova stepped away from elite competition to focus on her family, taking a maternity leave after the birth of her child.
Olympic Judo Champion Diyora Keldiyorova Resumes Training https://t.co/NvI4FR7wYw#uzbekistan #news
Preparation for the New Olympic Cycle
Training under the supervision of expert coaches, Keldiyorova has rebuilt her conditioning and regained top form ahead of her tournament appearance in Kazakhstan. Her return in Aktau is an essential milestone in her buildup toward the new Olympic cycle, testing her readiness as she targets new titles.
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