Rustam Orujov, after ending his sports career, began a successful path as a judo administrator. The Olympic silver medalist, two-time World Championship finalist, and European champion is now developing judo in Saudi Arabia. In an interview with Idman.biz, Orujov spoke about the specifics of his work, promising plans, the upcoming Islamic Solidarity Games, and much more.
Rustam, it can be said that your career has taken a sharp turn this year, you are now working as Performance Director for judo at the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee. Were you somewhat surprised by such an offer?
Honestly, I thought about it for a long time. Previously, I had received various offers but declined them. This one attracted me because it came from the Saudi Olympic Committee and offered good conditions. Still, I deliberated for a long time, as moving there was a big decision. In the end, I concluded that the work would give a major boost to my career and help me gain valuable experience in this field. I believe I can demonstrate my abilities in this new role and achieve solid results.
You are also a commissioner of the European Judo Union (EJU), engaged in courses at the International Judo Federation (IJF) Academy, and conduct masterclasses. How do you manage everything? Is your calendar planned months in advance?
Indeed, my schedule is very tight right now. I even declined participation in some EJU competitions and IJF courses because I am fully focused on the Saudi Arabian team. I want to raise the level of judo in the country and succeed as Performance Director, to show the world that one can be successful not only as an athlete but also as an administrator. So I have declined all trips until the end of the year, but in the new season, I will try to participate in several EJU tournaments and IJF courses to continue this work.
How is judo developing in Saudi Arabia? What goals have been set for you?
The national team roster is already formed. We selected athletes by visiting all corners of the country and observing local competitions. We continue to work on improving the skills of local judokas, but they are already capable of competing internationally. We hope that in a few years we will achieve strong results.
Is the legendary Ilias Iliadis the head coach of the Saudi national team? How is it working in such a tandem, considering your close friendship?
We have built a very good team, which is extremely important for this kind of work. There is mutual respect everywhere, and we trust each other. Honestly, such a friendly and cohesive team is rare, but that is its main value. I hope we will see it through to the end and deliver strong results.
At the medal ceremony of the “Grand Slam” tournament in Baku, you presented medals alongside IJF President Marius Vizer. How exciting was it, and do you feel his support?
Absolutely, I feel the support of the IJF President. It was very nice to receive his birthday congratulations, he takes an interest in how things are going for me. During the award ceremony in Baku, he also asked about this. So I fully feel Marius Vizer’s support.
Since the beginning of the year, rule changes have been introduced, including the return of the “yuko” score. In your opinion, has this added more dynamism to judo?
I think the new rules are better than the previous ones. For example, previously, one could throw an opponent with a controversial technique for ippon or waza-ari, and referees often awarded waza-ari. Now, with yuko returning, judo feels more balanced. I am very happy about this. There will be less overtime fighting because even a five-second hold now earns a score. It has also become much more enjoyable for spectators to watch the bouts.
Riyadh will host the Islamic Solidarity Games this year. What is your opinion on the organizers’ preparations?
The preparation is very serious. I had a chance to see the hall where the judo competitions will take place, it is simply amazing! I believe everything will be top-notch, and the team will achieve success.
What personal goals have you set for yourself in the coming years?
This year has been somewhat of a selection year for us. We scouted athletes, attended local championships, and selected cadets, juniors, and seniors. Then we held training camps to strengthen the team. Only now has a spark ignited in the athletes, they are starting to understand what professional sports are, as they never trained twice a day before. They have developed a desire to win, attend tournaments, and see Olympic and World champions. I can see the fire in their eyes and their hunger for competition. Previously, judo was virtually unknown in Saudi Arabia, but now when we arrive at competitions, athletes are treated differently. For example, at the European Cups for adults and juniors, they achieved two fifth-place finishes, results that Saudi athletes had never achieved before. We are only at the beginning of our journey, and major success will come when we achieve results in larger competitions. And I believe that will happen.
Zaki Feyzullaev
Idman.biz
