July 27, 2024, will forever be remembered as a milestone for Japanese judo. Natsumi Tsunoda, competing in her first Olympic Games, claimed the gold medal in the women’s -48 kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her victory not only secured her place among the judo elite but also added a historic chapter to Japan’s illustrious sporting legacy.
A Stellar Performance in Paris
From her opening match, Tsunoda demonstrated her determination to win gold. Her journey to the top was marked by resilience and the poise of a true champion.
In the semifinals, she faced Tara Babulfath from Sweden, another Olympic debutant. Their tightly contested match extended into the “golden score” round. A critical mistake by Babulfath allowed Tsunoda to secure her spot in the final.
In the championship match, Tsunoda took on Baasankhuu Bavuudorj of Mongolia, a seasoned competitor and one of the event’s favorites. Staying true to her strategy, Tsunoda executed a brilliant technique, earning her first Olympic gold medal.
A Historic Achievement
This gold medal holds special significance for Japan. At 31, Tsunoda became the first Japanese judoka to win the -48 kg category since the legendary Ryoko Tani, who claimed gold in Athens 2004. Her victory also marked Japan’s 500th gold medal in Summer Olympic history, adding even greater prestige to her accomplishment.
For Tsunoda, this triumph is the culmination of years of dedication and effort. Though she had previously excelled in world championships, Paris 2024 represents the pinnacle of her career.
An Inspiration for Future Generations
Following her victory, Tsunoda expressed her gratitude to her team and her nation for their unwavering support. She hopes her success will inspire young judokas to pursue their dreams and uphold Japan’s proud tradition in judo.
Tsunoda’s win not only cements her legacy but also marks a significant moment for women’s sports in Japan. As she looks ahead to future competitions, including the next world championships, she has her sights set on defending her title at the 2028 Olympics.
