June 28, 2024 - Kiyomi Watanabe has officially secured her place in the 2024 Paris Olympics! The International Judo Federation confirmed that Watanabe earned one of the two continental quotas in the women's category of the -63kg class.
Watanabe is a powerhouse Judo athlete, boasting an impressive record as a four-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist and an Asian Games silver medalist. This will be her second consecutive Olympic appearance, having previously competed in the Tokyo 2020 Games. She was even one of the Philippines' flag bearers alongside boxer Eumir Marcial.
Judo, originating in Japan, is a martial art emphasizing throws and grappling techniques. It became an Olympic sport in 1964, and since then, it's grown into one of the most popular events at the Summer Games.
Watanabe's return to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She'll be aiming to improve on her performance in Tokyo, where she was unfortunately eliminated in the Round of 32.
We are thrilled to see Kiyomi Watanabe represent her country on the world stage once again. Congratulations, Kiyomi!