Diyora Keldiyorova’s next chapter: Judo, state work, and a new sports center

On February 27, the Judo Center named after Paris 2024 Olympic champion Diyora Keldiyorova officially opened in Tashkent.

The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation (IJF), Adham Ikromov, Minister of Sports, Otabek Umarov, Deputy Chairman of the National Olympic Committee (NOC), and Shahnoza Mirziyoyeva, Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection and First Deputy Chairman of the National Paralympic Committee of Uzbekistan.

During the event, Vizer, Umarov, and Mirziyoyeva cut the ceremonial red ribbon, marking the inauguration of the Diyora Keldiyorova Sports Center.

IJF President Marius Vizer praised Uzbekistan’s commitment to judo, emphasizing the progress the country has made in recent years. Minister of Sports Adham Ikromov and Olympic champion Diyora Keldiyorova also delivered speeches, expressing confidence that the new center will nurture future Olympic and world champions.

The ceremony featured performances by young judokas and dance groups, followed by the presentation of souvenirs to the athletes by sports officials.

With Keldiyorova now working at the National Agency for Social Protection and managing a sports club, QALAMPIR.UZ has wondered whether her athletic career will take a backseat.

Given her growing responsibilities, is it realistic for her to juggle everything while maintaining her status as an elite judoka?

"My career always comes first for me," Keldiyorova affirmed. "Other coaches work at this sports center, and in my free time, I give master classes to young athletes. Because of me, more young people have developed an interest in judo. I always try to motivate them. My government work does not interfere with my training."

Uzbek judo reached new heights at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing three medals—an unprecedented achievement in the country’s history. With growing investments in the sport and the establishment of modern training facilities, expectations are higher than ever for the 2028 Olympics.

Much like a carefully cultivated field, significant resources are being invested in judo today. The real results—the "harvest"—will be seen in the coming years.