Denis Weisser, Chair of the IJF Veterans Commission, reflected with emotion and pride on the success of the event, “This edition has been the biggest event ever, with more than 2,500 participants from 66 countries. We have never experienced that! I am very happy with the veteran community, it’s one that is growing worldwide."
Despite the challenges of recent years, none more tangible than the global pandemic, the veteran judo community has not only endured, but flourished. This tournament is living proof, a powerful comeback, a reunion and a celebration of resilience.
Weisser continued by thanking the key figures who made this milestone possible, “I want to thank IJF President Marius Vizer and France Judo President Stephane Nomis for supporting our movement. The French organising committee did a fantastic job and delivered wonderful hospitality. The organisation was impeccable.”
Beyond impeccable organisation, what made this event extraordinary was its spirit of unity. It was a moment in which retired world medallists rubbed shoulders with enthusiastic hobbyists, where old rivals became lifelong friends and where the tatami became a place to share decades of experience, smiles and histories.
The quality of judo displayed throughout the event was also a revelation, “This event is a good place to watch excellent judo that becomes better and better year after year. You can meet old friends and make new ones. Veteran judo is more popular and accessible than ever and everyone can take part and enjoy, whatever their journey has been.”
One of the most heartening elements of this edition was the women’s tournament, which saw its highest participation in history. “Today the women’s competition was another milestone in the development of veteran judo. We never had so many participants and they showed excellent judo. The women’s judo has been fantastic. I really enjoyed watching it.”
As the lights dimmed over Paris, the excitement for the future was already dawning. “I am looking forward to the 2026 edition and I am curious to see where we will land for what already promises to be a fantastic event.”
From Paris, with pride, veteran judo is not just alive, it is thriving, evolving and uniting the world in a lifelong embrace of the sport we love.