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As the 2025 European Judo Championships in Podgorica approached its final stages, Dr. Tóth László, President of the European Judo Union, reflected on what he described as an “unforgettable success.” Dr. Tóth shared his hope that this event will leave a strong legacy for judo’s growth in Montenegro.
Dr. Tóth praised the Montenegrin Judo Federation, the countless volunteers and the local community for their incredible contribution. “For a small country, this is an outstanding achievement. If I had to rate it, I wouldn’t say 100 percent, I would say 300 percent.”
The President emphasised that the success was a true team effort between the EJU and the Montenegrin organisers. Crucially, it was also the result of 47 European countries sending their best athletes. “It was fantastic to see Olympic, World, and European champions all on the same tatami,” he said. “The level of judo here shows that Europe is already in full motion for the next Olympic cycle.” Dr. Tóth was particularly impressed by the new generation of judoka: “We saw so many young athletes who, I believe, will soon become dominant figures not just in Europe but around the world.”
When asked about the most memorable moments of the championships, Dr. Tóth mentioned the opening ceremony. “The atmosphere created by the spectators and the children from the kids camp was truly special it even surpassed many bigger events I have seen before. The energy carried on throughout the week in a packed house for the finals.”
Reflecting on the contests themselves, he compared the experience to Wimbledon. “The level was so high that at times it felt like being at a tennis final, heads were turning side to side, trying to keep up with all the happenings on every tatami.”
Another highlight for Dr. Tóth was the progress made in media and communications. “The energy and creativity of our media team has taken judo’s visibility to a whole new level,” he said. “Also, the growing interest from new partners shows that the sport is gaining momentum beyond the tatami.” Dr. Tóth mentioned that while the event was a huge success, there is always room for growth: “We will go through every detail and look at where we can be even better.“
The event also marked a special celebration, the 50th anniversary of the Montenegrin Judo Federation. Finally, President Toth expressed his appreciation for Mr. Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation, who attended the championships and shared in the celebrations whilst lastly noted: “This event was a dream just three years ago and this week, it became a reality. It shows just how far European judo has come. But we are not stopping here. The journey continues.”
Author: Szandra Szogedi