Saeid Mollaei has recently been appointed as a member of the IBSA/IJF Joint Working Commission, marking a new step in his judo career. From Tbilisi, the champion shared his thoughts on this new stage, his ambitions, and his desire to contribute to the development of judo, especially in the field of para-judo: “I am here with the judo family, my judo family, as part of the IJF team and also with IBSA. It feels really good. I live in Germany and I work in judo. Judo is my life. I like working, especially with young people. I love teaching them what I know, and they are eager to learn. I am happy to work in judo.”

In addition to his work with IBSA, Mollaei continues his studies at the IJF Academy, where he combines theoretical and practical training: “I work every day, and every week I have exams before I can do the practical sessions. It’s very interesting, and I am learning a lot. I really like it.”

HIS EXPERIENCE IN PARA-JUDO

Mollaei’s connection to para-judo is not new. For years, he collaborated with the German IBSA team, although not on a permanent basis. Now, as an official member of the IBSA/IJF Joint Working Commission, his goal is to help take para-judo to the next level. “Tbilisi is my first event officially as a member of the new IBSA/IJF Joint Working Commission. I am looking forward to working with IBSA to see how we can grow para-judo,” he said.

Mollaei highlighted the similarities and differences between the IJF and IBSA but emphasized that judo is the common language that unites both organizations. “We are talking about judo, and that is the most important thing. There is a lot in common between the IJF and IBSA; there are also some differences, but judo is our common language. This is exactly what I want to bring to the IBSA family. For now, I am here to learn, discover, and understand. This is the first step. Then, I believe I can bring what I know and what I have experienced throughout my life in the sport.”

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF PARA-JUDO

Mollaei praised the professionalism of the IJF and expressed his desire to collaborate with IBSA to elevate para-judo to a higher level. “The IJF is a very professional organization at all levels. Not only on the tatami but in every step you take in judo, you see that the IJF has an answer. This is something I would love to collaborate on with IBSA.”

During his time in Georgia, Mollaei was impressed by the level of the competitors. “I saw that here in Georgia, there were many Paralympic and world medallists. It’s great to see such a high level. The quality of para-judo has improved so much in recent years. There is still room for improvement, and I will be happy to contribute.”

GRATITUDE TO THE JUDO FAMILY

Mollaei expressed his gratitude to the judo community for the support he has received over the years. “I will never be thankful enough to the judo family for supporting me throughout all these years.”

Although Mollaei has ended his international career, he still competes occasionally with his club in Germany, enjoying the sport he loves so much. For him, 2025 marks a turning point in his life, full of energy and new challenges. His commitment to judo and his desire to contribute to the development of para-judo reflect his passion for the sport and his dedication to the great judo family.

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Among the many standout moments was the performance of French judoka Sandrine Martinet. Competing in front of a passionate home crowd, Martinet captured a silver medal in the -48kg J2 category. Despite her defeat to Kazakhstan’s Akmaral Nauatbek, the Parisian fans celebrated her journey and her dedication, demonstrating the power of sport to unite and inspire. The sight of French flags waving and the chants of “Allez les Bleus” reverberating through the arena highlighted the deep emotional connection between Martinet and her supporters.

The excitement extended well beyond France, with other athletes delivering memorable performances. Liana Mutia of Team USA secured a historic silver in the -57kg J1 category, becoming the first American woman to medal in that class at a Paralympic Games. Mutia’s achievement, coupled with her humble and light-hearted reflections on her journey, resonated deeply with fans in the arena and around the world.

Additionally, champions like Japan’s Junko Hirose and Brazil’s Alana Maldonado emerged victorious, taking gold in their respective weight categories, further elevating the level of competition and excitement.

The crowd’s unwavering support throughout the event was a testament to the growing recognition of Para Judo. What once might have been a niche sport had now captivated a global audience, with Paris serving as the perfect backdrop for these extraordinary athletes. The turnout of over 12,000 spectators reflected not just the allure of the Paralympics, but also the deep connection between the athletes’ personal stories and the fans who cheered them on.

In many ways, Paris 2024 proved that Para Judo is more than just a sport—it is a platform for empowerment, unity, and inspiration.

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