Brazil’s dominance in judo gained new momentum this weekend as the Brazilian junior judo team claimed the overall title at the 2024 Pan American Junior Judo Championships, held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The team captured a record 18 medals — including 8 golds, 6 silvers, and 4 bronzes — making it Brazil’s most successful campaign in the history of the continental junior event.
This performance underlines the country’s continued strength in the sport, from grassroots development to elite competition, as Brazil looks ahead to the next Olympic cycle and beyond.
Gold Medal Highlights
Among the many standout performances:
- Amanda Souza (–52kg): Dominated her division with fast-paced, aggressive throws, winning all her matches by ippon.
- Caio Rodrigues (–73kg): Clinched gold with a tactical final against a strong Canadian rival, using a decisive seoi-nage.
- Larissa Andrade (–78kg): Confirmed her rising star status by defeating the Pan American U21 champion in a dramatic golden score match.
- Matheus Silva (+100kg): Showed power and technical adaptability to secure Brazil’s final gold of the tournament.
In addition, Brazil’s mixed team secured gold in the team competition, defeating Argentina 4–2 in the final.
Head coach Daniel Cargnin, himself an Olympic bronze medalist, emphasized the symbolic importance of the achievement:
“These young judokas are not just fighting for medals — they are building the next generation of Olympic dreams for Brazil.”
A Long-Term Investment Paying Off
The success in Punta Cana reflects the sustained efforts of the Brazilian Judo Confederation (CBJ), including:
- Talent scouting programs in all five regions of Brazil
- Scholarships and sponsorships for young athletes
- Technical exchange programs with Japanese and French judo federations
- Investment in sports science, nutrition, and psychological support
CBJ President Silvio Acácio Borges stated:
“This result is a validation of our commitment to holistic athlete development. It’s not just about fighting — it’s about forming champions inside and outside the tatami.”
Looking Ahead: World Junior Championships and Olympic Dreams
Following their continental triumph, Brazil’s junior judokas will now turn their attention to:
- The 2024 World Junior Judo Championships in Portugal
- Preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar
- Gradual integration into Brazil’s senior national team
Several athletes from this group, including Amanda Souza and Caio Rodrigues, are expected to debut in senior Grand Slam events later this year, fast-tracking their path toward Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 Olympic contention.
Judo’s Deep Roots in Brazilian Culture
Judo remains one of Brazil’s most successful Olympic sports, producing legends like Aurélio Miguel, Rafaela Silva, and Sarah Menezes. The sport’s popularity continues to grow, particularly in schools and community centers, with judo programs helping to promote discipline, respect, and inclusion.
The Pan American junior success has further energized fans and brought increased attention to youth judo tournaments across Brazil.
Conclusion: A New Generation Rises
With technique, heart, and extraordinary dedication, Brazil’s junior judo team has shown that the future of Brazilian judo is not only bright — it’s unstoppable.
As they continue their journey toward global glory, these young athletes are writing a new chapter in Brazil’s proud judo history.