Born: 1975 (Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan)
Biography:
Ryoko Tamura, also known as Ryoko Tani, was born on September 6, 1975, in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan. She began her judo journey at the age of seven and quickly showed great talent and potential in the sport. Standing at only 1.46 meters tall, Tamura competed in the extra-lightweight (48 kg) division throughout her career, never having to cut weight before competitions.
Tamura’s first major victory came in 1990 at the Fukuoka International Women’s Judo Championships, a tournament she went on to win an incredible 13 years in a row. In 1993, she won her first world title and received her fourth dan. Her dominance continued as she won the biennial world championships in 1995, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003, and 2007. This record seven wins was only surpassed by French judoka Teddy Riner in 2015, during an era when the world championships became annual events.
Tamura’s Olympic career was equally impressive. At the age of 16, she competed in her first Olympics in Barcelona in 1992. In the semifinals, she defeated veteran British fighter Karen Briggs, a four-time world champion. Although Tamura lost in the final match, it was clear that her talent and potential were unmatched.
She continued her success at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, reaching the final once again. However, this time she faced an unknown North Korean judoka, Kye Sun Hui. Despite being the clear favorite, Tamura was unable to secure the gold medal, and instead, she had to settle for her second Olympic silver. This defeat was a significant setback for Tamura, leading the Japanese media to speak of an Olympic curse. However, Tamura later reflected on this and stated that there was never a curse, but rather a lack of experience in her younger years.
After the disappointment in Atlanta, Tamura went on an unbeaten streak for 12 years. Her perseverance paid off when she won the gold medal at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Along the way, she faced a tough challenge in the semi-finals against North Korea’s Cha Hyon-hyang but emerged victorious. In the final, Tamura displayed her skill and determination, securing the gold medal and solidifying her status as one of the greatest female judokas in history.
Tamura’s success continued at the Athens Olympics in 2004, where she once again claimed the gold medal. Her ability to consistently perform at the highest level made her a respected and admired figure in the world of judo. In recognition of her achievements, the International Judo Federation named her the best female judoka ever after her retirement.
Aside from her sporting career, Tamura also pursued her education. She studied literature at Teikyo University and joined Toyota in 1998. In 2003, she married Yoshitomo Tani, an Olympian and professional baseball player. Their wedding reception reportedly cost a staggering $3 million. The couple has two sons, born in 2005 and 2009.
In 2010, Tamura decided to embark on a new path and entered politics. She was elected to the House of Councillors, the upper house of the Japanese parliament. Her transition from a successful athlete to a politician demonstrated her determination to make a positive impact on society beyond the realm of sports.
Ryoko Tamura’s contributions to judo, her numerous victories, and her relentless pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on the sport. Her dedication, talent, and resilience continue to inspire young athletes around the world, making her a true icon in women’s judo history.
Awards:
– 7-time World Judo Champion
– 5-time Olympic medalist (including 2 gold medals)
– Named best female judoka ever by the International Judo Federation