This is obviously even more true for this cycle which was one year shorter due to the global pandemic. While the Antalya Grand Slam 2024 has just ended, we understand even better why the few months that separate us from the opening of the Games are nothing compared to all the effort that has been made by the delegations and the organisers of World Judo Tour events so far.
Antalya was an incredible vintage, which brought great joy to the spectators at the Antalya Sport Hall as well as to fans around the world. The demonstration offered by the Abe siblings was breathtaking and left many experts speechless; the fratricidal fights within delegations to obtain a precious ‘open sesame’ for the Games kept us in suspense; the technical level which continues to rise event after event is a sign of the quality that we will witness at the next world championships and of course in Paris.
In countries like France, where judo is royalty, we can expect a 2024 Olympic edition that will be remembered. Some athletes chose Antalya as the last test gallop to refine their preparation. They will now be able to stock up on energy and the desire to win. We can't wait for more.
For the others, the race for qualification is not yet over. There are undoubtedly still places to gain to improve the world ranking, that synonymous with a seeded place. Türkiye was therefore exceptional in terms of intensity and commitment. In a few weeks the World Judo Tour will be present in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. After the original edition of the grand prix last year, the event has been upgraded to a grand slam, which should once again attract the best athletes and an incredible audience.
Note the dates, it will be 3rd to 5th May 2024. Soon after it will be the turn of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2024 and then the Abu Dhabi World Championships Seniors 2024 for individuals and mixed teams. What a programme awaits us! Stay tuned and follow the action on https://judotv.com/