On April 20, 2025, the All-Japan Women's Judo Championships unfolded at the Yokohama Budokan, showcasing some of the country's best talents in a weight-free competition format. This year's tournament was particularly noteworthy, as it marked the first championship win for 25-year-old Mayu Tanaka from the Osaka Prefectural Police.
Tanaka's path to victory was nothing short of spectacular. In the final match, she faced off against Misaki Shirokane from Tsukuba University. With a decisive major outer cut, Tanaka secured her win by ippon, solidifying her status as a rising star in the judo community. This victory not only represents her first championship but also highlights her potential as a competitor in future international events.
Meanwhile, Natsumi Tsunoda, the reigning gold medalist from the Paris Olympics in the 48kg category, had a challenging day. Competing in her third All-Japan Championships, Tsunoda started strong, winning her first match by flag decision and following up with a victory in the second round using a tomoe throw. However, her journey came to an abrupt halt in the third round, where she lost to Utana Terada from JR East Japan by a 0-3 flag decision. Tsunoda’s performance, while commendable, fell short of expectations given her previous accolades.
The tournament featured a unique format, allowing competitors from various weight classes to face off against each other, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement. In Tsunoda's case, she faced a significant weight disadvantage against her opponents, competing at 53kg against opponents who were often much heavier. Despite this, her experience and skill shone through in her initial matches.
In the first round, Tsunoda faced off against Mazaki Suzuyama, a high school senior representing the Shikoku region and competing in the over 78kg class. Tsunoda managed to secure a victory, demonstrating her ability to adapt and overcome challenges, even when facing opponents who were up to six weight classes heavier than her.
Tanaka's historic win is a significant milestone not only for her career but also for the Osaka Prefectural Police judo team, which has been nurturing talent for years. Her performance at this championship is expected to propel her into the spotlight, potentially leading to opportunities on the international stage.
As the tournament progressed, the atmosphere at the Yokohama Budokan was electric. Fans and fellow competitors rallied behind their favorites, creating an environment filled with anticipation and excitement. The unique rules of the tournament, including the use of flag decisions to determine outcomes in matches that extended beyond the allotted time, kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
In addition to Tanaka and Tsunoda, several other competitors made headlines with their performances. For instance, Fukumi Hisano from the Kanagawa Prefectural Police won her first-round match decisively against Erina Maeda from Sakaide Daiichi High School, executing a vertical four-way hold in just 39 seconds. Hisano’s quick victory showcased her preparation and skill, setting the tone for a competitive day.
Another notable match was between Mina Kobayashi of the Aichi Prefectural Police and Ansei Takemura from the Hyogo Prefectural Police. Kobayashi emerged victorious in a closely contested match, winning by a slight margin of 2-1, highlighting the competitive nature of the event.
The All-Japan Women's Judo Championships not only serve as a platform for individual competitors to showcase their skills but also play a crucial role in shaping the future of judo in Japan. With the upcoming World Championships in Budapest scheduled for June, the performances at this tournament will undoubtedly influence selections and preparations for the national team.
As the day concluded, the victories and defeats resonated throughout the judo community, sparking discussions about the future of these athletes. For Tanaka, the win marks a new chapter in her career, while Tsunoda's journey serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face, regardless of their past successes.
Looking ahead, the spotlight will be on these athletes as they prepare for international competitions. The All-Japan Championships have once again proven to be a vital stepping stone for judo athletes in Japan, showcasing not only established stars but also emerging talents ready to make their mark.
