The name Kosei Inoue is well known to judo fans around the world. The career of the Sydney Olympic champion and two-time world champion has successfully transitioned into an administrative path. He is a member of the Executive Committee of the All Japan Judo Federation (AJJF) and Japan’s National Olympic Committee, as well as the sporting director of the International Judo Federation (IJF).
In an interview with Idman.Biz, the legend of world judo summed up the season, shared his expectations for the World Championships in Baku and spoke about many other topics.
– The Tokyo Grand Slam traditionally concluded the season, and the hosts won 37 medals, including 11 gold. Can we say that the Japanese national team is in ideal shape?
– The Tokyo tournament is always special for the Japanese team. It is held at home, and the athletes compete with enormous motivation. The result is certainly impressive, but I would not draw far-reaching conclusions based on just one event.
We are moving in the right direction, that is a fact. But judo is constantly evolving and the level of competition is becoming tougher. Our task is not only to maintain a high standard, but also to continue growing in order to be ready for the main challenges of the coming year.
– Considering that the main event of next season will take place in Baku, can we say that the outline of the squad has already been defined?
– You know that in Japan there is always a wide selection of top-level athletes. The outline of the squad is indeed beginning to take shape, but final decisions are made only after analyzing the entire series of international competitions and domestic selection events. The most important thing is objectivity and fairness in selection. The Japanese system is built so that those who are strongest at the moment step onto the tatami, regardless of past achievements.
– Your position as IJF sporting director certainly means that visits to Baku will become frequent. Do you plan to be actively involved in the preparation of the World Championships?
– Yes, absolutely. At the IJF I am responsible for the sporting component of international tournaments, and the World Championships are one of the key projects. Together with the Azerbaijan Judo Federation, we are working closely to organize the tournament at the highest possible level. Baku has already established itself as a capital of world-class competitions. I am confident that the World Championships will be a bright event not only for the region, but for the entire global judo community.
– How do you assess the development of judo in Azerbaijan? What distinguishes your school, in your opinion?
– The Azerbaijani judo school combines powerful physical preparation with a high emotional intensity. Your athletes always demonstrate character and a strong will to win, which is evident both at the youth level and in the senior national team. I would also like to highlight the impressive work of the federation: systematic youth development, modern training centers and attentive support for coaches. Azerbaijan consistently ranks among the strongest judo nations, and in my view, its growth potential remains very high.
– Japan has always been famous for its Olympic champions. Tadahiro Nomura won the title three times, while Hifumi Abe has two Olympic gold medals and is aiming for a third in Los Angeles. Do you think he can match his great compatriot in Olympic victories?
– Nomura’s story is unique. Three Olympic gold medals are the result of talent, enormous hard work and incredible consistency. Hifumi Abe is an athlete of the highest level. He has a rich technical arsenal, a champion’s mentality and a tremendous desire to win. Can he win for a third time? Yes, it is possible. But the Olympics are a special tournament where every second can change the fate of a contest. I wish him good health, a clear mind and belief in himself. Everything else he knows how to do on his own.
– You have dedicated your entire life to judo. What does it mean to you today?
– For me, judo is not just a sport. It is a path that shapes a person. It teaches respect, humility, responsibility and the ability to overcome oneself. Judo has given me everything: a worldview, friends and a sense of purpose in serving society. Today, by working in sports management, development and supporting young athletes, I want to give back what I once received myself. I was incredibly motivated throughout my career and deeply wanted to succeed. The meaning of judo for me is not simply about winning or losing. It is about constantly improving yourself and society, striving to give everything you can. This was emphasized by the founder of judo, Jigoro Kano. When I am involved in judo, these two directions – self-improvement and the improvement of society – are always in my heart.
Zaki Feyzullayev
