Sweden is preparing three potential Olympians

Sweden's presence in the world of judo continues to grow, with athletes like Tara Babulfath emerging as rising stars alongside established figures like Marcus Nyman. Representing the Swedish flag on the World Judo Tour, they embody judo values of positivity, sportsmanship, and humility.

Based out of the Malmo training center, the Swedish national team is focused on building a strong program, with coaches providing personalized attention to each athlete while fostering a collective spirit of improvement. Their dedication and willingness to push themselves were evident during their recent participation in the Olympic Training Camp (OTC) in Tata, Hungary.

Following successful performances in Dubrovnik, where they competed in the senior European cup, the Swedish team embraced the challenges of the OTC in Tata, focusing on preparation for upcoming qualification tournaments leading to the Olympic Games. Their hard work and determination resulted in significant learning and progress, reflecting their commitment to continuous improvement.

Leading the charge for Sweden are athletes like Babulfath and Nyman, known for their relentless fighting spirit. With both athletes currently in direct qualification positions for the Paris Games, supported by Ida Eriksson at -70 kg in the continental quota, Sweden is poised for success. Their next challenge awaits at the European Championships in Zagreb, where they aim to further solidify their positions on the international stage.

Watch the Olympic ranking and chances for Sweden. 

Marcus Nyman, a two-time world bronze medallist, was the top earner in the 2016 IJF World Tour. He clinched Grand Slam gold in Antalya and Tbilisi in 2021, and gold at the Tashkent Grand Prix in 2019. Nyman, a European champion in 2010, also excelled as a junior, winning European Junior titles. He secured gold at the Düsseldorf Grand Prix in 2011 and 2016, and at the Baku and Tyumen Grand Slam events in 2016, besides finishing fifth at the Rio Olympics.

Ida Eriksson has excelled in judo, earning a silver at the 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam. She secured bronze at the 2020 European U23 Championships and clinched gold at the 2021 European Cup in Dubrovnik. Eriksson's consistency shines with bronze medals at the 2022 European Opens in Prague and Malaga. Adding to her accolades, she claimed bronze at the 2023 GP Portugal. A Swedish champion across all age categories, Eriksson is now qualified, but not yet safe at rank 24 -70kg.

Tara Babulfath was successful in her youth securing silver at the 2021 Cadet European Championships and 2022 Cadet Worlds. Following in her parents' footsteps, her father, Mohammad, a former Olympian wrestler, and her mother, Ida Hellstrom, who excelled in wrestling, Tara has carved her path in judo. Her victories include a surprising gold medal at the Grand Slam in Baku. Adding to her achievements, she clinched the bronze at the 2024 Tashkent Grand Slam.