Hifumi Abe solidified his place in judo history by winning his second consecutive Olympic gold medal at the Paris 2024 Games. Competing in the -66 kg category, Abe delivered a stunning performance, defeating Brazil’s Willian Lima by ippon in the final held at the iconic Champ-de-Mars Arena. This victory, following his triumph at Tokyo 2020, cements his status as one of the greatest judokas of his generation.
A Bittersweet Day for the Abe Family
While Hifumi celebrated his victory, the day brought unexpected heartbreak for his sister, Uta Abe. Competing in the -52 kg division, Uta was eliminated in the second round by Uzbekistan’s Diyora Keldiyorova, who went on to claim gold. The loss was shocking, considering Uta’s gold medal performance at Tokyo 2020 and her position as the favorite.
Despite the emotional challenge, Hifumi remained focused on honoring the Abe family legacy. Reflecting on his win, he said:
“This is an unforgettable memory for me. My sister lost today, and it was a very difficult day, but I worked hard with the feeling that I had to give my best to make up for it.”
Unmatched Dominance on the Tatami
Hifumi Abe’s journey in Paris highlighted his technical brilliance and unparalleled strategic skills. His ability to secure victories with ippon reflects his mastery of the sport and meticulous preparation.
With his second Olympic gold, Abe not only strengthens his position as one of Japan’s judo greats but also inspires future generations. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
After his victory, Abe remarked:
“I always strive to represent the best of Japanese judo. These moments motivate me to continue working hard and improving.”
