Stéphan Nomis, France Judo President, declared, "Dear IJF President, dear Marius, dear friends, this Paris Grand Slam 2024 is an exceptional vintage. It is the 50th edition but also the year of the Olympic Games coming back to Paris. Thank you to the IJF for all the support and the fidelity of French judo. All our French former champions have always been committed to promoting our values and have always shone in our city.
I want to greet them. 107 nations for this year's edition is unbelievable. This is a record. We have more than 620 athletes who came to qualify and get ready for the Games. This is beautiful to witness. Our team works hard to perform; they need your support and your love as we want to win many medals. I want to conclude that every year you, the spectators, fill the biggest dojo in the world during the grand slam. Thank you to all of you."
Then, the IJF President, Mr Vizer took the floor and said, "Distinguished guests, president of the French federation, athletes, coaches, officials, spectators, partners and media, I welcome you all at this Paris Grand Slam. Congratulations for the great organisation. Thanks to all our partners. I wish you all a successful Paris Grand Slam and successful Olympic Games. I wish to all of you unity, fraternity and peace and I declare the Paris Grand Slam open." Then the French national anthem and the IJF anthem were played.
Before the official opening, the 15,000 spectators witnessed an impressive artistic show followed by the presentation of the French Paralympic team, with five athletes already pre-qualified to participate in the event in September.
Sandrine Martinet, Paralympic gold medallist in Rio 2016, who is among the five pre-selected athletes, said, "Each Games has its own flavour but competing at home will be something special. We are expecting you to come in numbers and to support us as you amazingly support our friends. We need you."
Antoine Hays, French Para-judo Director, added, "We already have five pre-selected athletes but we expect more in the months to come. Thank you to all of you for supporting para-judo."