Olympian Zeddy Cherotich to lead Kenyan team for World Judo Champs

The former javelin player became the first Kenyan feminine Judoka to feature in Olympic Games last year, where she was defeated by Patricia Sampaio of Portugal in the first round of the Paris Games in the -78kg weight class.

Cherotich and company are currently in camp sharpening their claws for the World Championships, set to be held in Hungary’s capital Budapest from June 13–19, this year.

Currently ranked 97th in the world, Cherotich is optimistic about her chances and believes the rigorous training is setting her up for success.

“A judoka has to prepare psychologically, mentally, and physically to make the team. If you neglect any of these aspects, injuries are inevitable,” she said.

Team morale is high following a strong showing at the recent Africa Open in Casablanca, Morocco, where the Kenyan contingent impressed with their tactical discipline and resilience, earning a gold and a bronze medal from just six athletes.

Much of the recent improvement is credited to the arrival of highly-rated Japanese coach Yusuke Utashiro.

His appointment was facilitated by the Kenya Judo Federation President Shadrack Maluki through negotiations with the International Judo Federation (IJF). Utashiro, who is IJF-certified, and has quickly made a significant impact.

“They have great potential and a strong sense of anticipation. They’re improving with every training session,” noted Utashiro.

Riding on the momentum from Morocco, the team is determined to make it count in Budapest before heading straight to the Africa Judo Championships in South Africa, which will run from June 26–29, 2025.

Kenyan judoka Boniface Mukonyi shared insights into their daily routine, underscoring the team’s commitment to success.

“We’re well prepared. Every morning starts with a run, followed by gym sessions and intensive training at Kasarani Stadium. We also do additional workouts in our local gyms. I believe all this effort will help me bring home a medal,” said Mukonyi.

With focused training, elite coaching, and renewed confidence, Kenya’s judo stars are ready to take on the world and raise the national flag high in Hungary and South Africa.