Born: 1989 (Hachioji City, Tokyo)
Misato Nakamura (中村 美里, Nakamura Misato) is a Japanese judoka who has made a significant impact in the world of judo. Born in Hachioji City, Tokyo in April 1989, Nakamura began her journey in judo at a young age and quickly rose to become one of the most accomplished athletes in the sport.
Nakamura’s introduction to the world of martial arts came at a young age. As a child, she was active and enjoyed playing baseball with her brother and male friends in the neighborhood. Additionally, she had a passion for music and would often practice the piano. Her interest in combat sports was sparked by watching K-1 on TV with her father, who was a member of the Self-Defense Forces at the time. This exposure made her long for mixed martial arts, and at the age of nine, she approached her mother with the idea of practicing karate. However, her mother objected to the perceived danger of kicking, leading Nakamura to begin practicing judo at the Takao Police Station.
Nakamura’s judo journey truly took off when she joined the Sobukan Yoshida Dojo in Sagamihara during her fifth year of elementary school. It was at this dojo that she began to refine her skills and develop her signature move, the Kogaikari technique. Despite facing various opponents, Nakamura remained resilient and unfazed, earning her the reputation of being unwavering in any situation.
In her junior high school years, Nakamura’s dedication and talent in judo became evident. She lived in a dormitory at the Sobukan Yoshida Dojo and attended Aihara Junior High School. It was during this time that she first gained recognition in the judo world by defeating a third-year student, Kaori Kondo, in the final of the 2 kg class of the National Junior High School Judo Tournament. This victory solidified her potential as a rising star in the sport.
Nakamura’s success continued to flourish as she reached her high school years. She enrolled in Shibuya Education Gakuen Shibuya High School, where she continued to train diligently. Nakamura’s dedication and hard work paid off when she became the World Judo Champion not once, but three times, in 2009, 2011, and 2015. These victories solidified her position as one of the top judokas in the world, showcasing her exceptional skill, technique, and athleticism.
Throughout her career, Nakamura has demonstrated her versatility and mastery of various judo techniques. Her specialties include small gaikari and the sleeping technique, which she honed over years of training and competition. Nakamura’s commitment to her craft earned her a place as a designated athlete for the All Japan Strengthening Program, an indication of her exceptional talent and potential.
Misato Nakamura’s contributions to the world of judo extend beyond her individual achievements. She is a respected member of the MSI Women’s Judo Club since April 2008, where she has undoubtedly inspired and mentored other aspiring judokas. Nakamura’s success has also paved the way for future generations of female judokas, proving that women have a rightful place in the sport and deserving of recognition for their accomplishments.
Nakamura’s dedication to her sport and unwavering determination have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being awarded the Sports Promotion Project Subsidy and Elite A certification in both 2010 and 2015. These recognitions further highlight her exceptional skill and the impact she has made in the world of judo.
As a judo pioneer and three-time World Judo Champion, Misato Nakamura has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her passion, skill, and unwavering spirit have not only elevated her own career but have also served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. Nakamura’s contributions to the sport of judo and her stance as a role model for women in athletics make her a notable figure in women’s history and a testament to the power of dedication and perseverance.