Dear Judo Family,

Dear Ladies,

On the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8th March, our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation extends to the remarkable professional women in our worldwide judo family, on and beyond the tatami: athletes, coaches, referees, technical officials, staff, administrators, directors, board members, athletes’ families, volunteers and supporters.

Congratulations! You are inspirational leaders, experts, educators and role models for our entire community. Your dedication and effort not only elevate our sport but also represent a source of inspiration for fellow sports professionals to pursue their dreams. We honour your dedication, celebrate your achievements and stand with you, today and every day.

Judo is an Olympic sport, a pathway that is educational, equitable and inclusive. Through its values and mission, judo nurtures the dreams of young girls, guiding them to become resilient, strong women. Judo cultivates the potential, courage and leadership of women, growing self-confidence. These values acquired in the dojo are equally helpful and practical off the tatami, even in self-defence situations. Judo guarantees a safe environment to grow and thrive in the direction they choose to.

We envision a future where many women embrace judo in all its dimensions, set new standards of excellence and drive greater representation at every level of the sport and beyond.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Marius L. Vizer

President

International Judo Federation