Judo

History of Judo in France

France boasts a rich and successful history with judo, becoming one of the leading nations in the sport globally. Here's a glimpse into this fascinating journey:

Early Introduction (1930s):

• 1935: Moshé Feldenkrais, a judo pioneer, arrived in Paris and introduced judo to the French public. This marked the official introduction of the sport into the country.
• Westernized Judo: Feldenkrais, in collaboration with Paul Bonet-Maury, developed a westernized variant of judo focusing on practical self-defense applications. This version aimed to differentiate itself from the traditional Japanese approach.

Golden Age and Continued Success (1960s onwards):

• France hosting the 1961 World Championships: This marked a significant milestone, highlighting the country's growing importance in the judo world.
• Judo's inclusion in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics: French judoka began to shine at the European level, paving the way for future Olympic success.
• Emergence of legendary French judoka: Figures like Jean-Claude Brondani, Angelo Parisi, and Thierry Rey rose to prominence, winning numerous international medals and inspiring future generations.
• France as a Leading Judo Nation: Today, France is one of the most successful nations in judo, consistently ranking at the top of international competitions. They have won numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, solidifying their place as a powerhouse in the sport.