Silver medalist at Rio 2016, three times world vice-champion, for six world podia overall, and three times European champion for ten continental medals, we never stop drawing up the list of Varlam Liparteliani's awards. Still ranked 27th in the world, although he occupied a much higher rank, and a member of the IJF Athletes' Commission, 'Lipo' is an important figure in world judo. A page closes today, a new chapter opens.
The president of the Georgian Judo Federation, Giorgi Atabegashvili, said of him, "Varlam Liparteliani made an important contribution to the recent success and development of Georgian judo. His career is priceless, he is a true role model for future generations. Over the years, he served the sport honestly, he is a worthy son of our country. I deeply believe that he can do a lot of positive good for the development of Georgian and world judo. Thank you on behalf of the entire federation, we love you Lipo."
For the main person concerned, the moment is special, "I am very emotional. It's somehow a beautiful day but at the same time, I am also a bit sad inside. This is not an easy decision to take to stop what you have been doing for so many years but I think it is time to stop. I am too old now for the highest level and the new generation is pushing hard. I wish them all the best. Lipo's era is over. I want now to concentrate on my family, I want to stay, but be sure that I want to stay in judo, simply because judo is my life."
Those words are powerful and they illustrate the aura of Varlam Liparteliani. It's only a goodbye and for sure he will find his place in the world of judo and we will all benefit from his experience.
Congratulations for your whole career Lipo!
The Tbilisi Grand Slam 2024 ended magnificently for all the medal-winning athletes and countries and especially for the host country which today obtained two additional gold medals with two of its champions. In the end, Georgia ranks as the 1st nation ahead of Spain with their two first places and Canada with a gold medal and two silver medals. A total of 24 countries reached the podium, while 32 entered the final block.
In less than a week, the Turkish tatami will resonate to the sound of ippon, with the 2024 edition of the Antalya Grand Slam. Stay tuned and follow all the action at https://judotv.com/