A Georgian Champion’s Vision for Indian Judo: Lasha’s Hope for a Bright Future

When Lasha Shavdatuashvili first stepped onto the judo mat in Georgia, little did he know that his journey would take him to Olympic glory and inspire a generation.

With a Gold Medal at the London 2012 Games, a Bronze in Rio 2016, and a Silver in Tokyo 2020, Lasha has surely registered his name as one of the best in the business.

Beyond the accolades, Lasha is a passionate advocate for judo, a sport he believes holds untapped potential in India.

During his recent visit to India, Lasha engaged with young Indian athletes, sharing his journey and offering guidance.

In a conversation with The Bridge, he reflected on India’s judo prospects and the steps needed to elevate the sport.

Q: What do you think about the Indian talents you met during your stay here?

Lasha: This is just the beginning. Every beginning brings big hopes, and they’ll have their chances. The young judokas I met have potential, but consistent support and exposure will be crucial for their growth.

Q: What do you think is the scope of a sport like judo in India?

Lasha: India needs to participate in more tournaments, especially for young athletes. More competitions will shape Indian judo and improve its standing globally. JSW is doing a commendable job, but I urge other organizers to step up and provide more opportunities. Currently, India has just one world champion in judo. This isn’t a limitation, it’s a sign that there is immense untapped potential.

Q: A few days ago, you conducted a master class at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) in Bellary for 70 judokas from Karnataka. How was that experience for you?

Lasha:I really enjoyed those five days. It was fulfilling to share my experiences with young athletes. Seeing their enthusiasm and drive was inspiring. I always encourage them to focus not just on physical training but also on mental preparation. Judo is not just about strength, it’s a mental and strategic battle. To excel, athletes need to immerse themselves in the sport, participate globally, and constantly seek improvement.”

Apart from the coaching masterclass, Lasha also appreciated the infrastructure present in the country. He said,"Not many countries have facilities like India. Even in Georgia, good facilities are scarce. I spend 9-10 months of the year abroad training and preparing for competitions.”

“I’m excited to support the future of judo in India. With the right support, more opportunities, and a dedicated mindset, Indian judo can achieve great things. This project will set a positive example, and I’m confident the results will follow," Lasha concluded.