That day that Tadahiro Nomura took his first Olympic title

It was certainly one of the best Olympic finals of Atlanta in 1996, at least legendary as Japan’s Tadahiro Nomura had to fight Italy’s Girolamo Giovinazzo and eventually became the best Olympian in judo history. Tadahiro Nomura is a legend of his sport, having won 3 Olympic gold medals in a row. His way to the top started in 1996, in Atlanta. Nomura was only 21 when he broke out on the biggest stage, reaching the Olympic final against 1994 European champ Italian Girolamo Giovinazzo, defeating the reigning world champion in Semis. And we’re about to live again this important part of Judo history. Today it is Nomura's 48th birthday.

The Italian took an early advantage after only 30sec, with a Yuko. Tadahiro Nomura come back in the fight, at half time (2min30), scoring a Yuko too on O-Soto-Gari. Tadahiro Nomura tries to throw what will become his “special”, a drop seoi nage. He doesn’t score this time  but the Italian receives a shido for non combativity. Nomura now leads with a small advantage, with Yuko and a Koka, while the Italian just has a Yuko.

It was 35 seconds before the end of the final. What a decisive move for Tadahiro Nomura. After many attempts, he throws the Italian with a drop Seoi Nage, his favourite throw, the one that will become his signature. It’s a ippon and Tadahiro Nomura is Olympic champion, at 21 ! He leaves the mat very moved, he’s in tears. That is the birth of the biggest Judo Olympian. And this day of 1996 will definitely remains as one of the most important in Judo History.