The discipline
Founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano in Japan, judo evolved from traditional jujitsu as a modern martial art focused on throws, holds, and discipline.
It became an official Olympic sport in 1964 and is now practiced worldwide, combining athleticism, respect, and technical mastery.
At the Games
Judo has been part of the last two editions and will continue in Riyadh 2025, featuring 168 athletes (84 men / 84 women) competing for 16 gold medals from 8 to 10 November 2025 at Malaz Combat Hall.
Entry
NOCs can enter up to 12 athletes across all weight categories, with a maximum of two athletes per category, selecting up to five men/seven women.
Participant selection will be made by the organizers/IJF based on the IJF Senior World Ranking List, prioritising top athletes, gender equality, and universality to balance numbers in each category.
The IJF World Ranking List will also be used for seeding during the Games draw.
Registered athletes must comply with the IJF sport and organization rules, as well as the IJF referee rules. They must also be born on or before 31 December 2010.
Athletes who qualify in the individual competition are eligible for the mixed team event. NOCs are eligible for this event with a minimum of athletes who fulfil four weight categories.
