Lasha Shavdatuashvili Keeps Pushing Beyond the Numbers

Georgia’s Lasha Shavdatuashvili remains one of Judo’s most accomplished competitors at -73kgs. At 34, the Georgian star has underlined his staying power by winning another European title in 2026, 13 years after his first continental crown.

Shavdatuashvili’s record is packed with major honours. He has collected Olympic gold, silver and bronze, completing the full set of Olympic medals, alongside a world title, six Grand Slam gold medals and two European titles.

There is one notable event missing from that collection: the Masters. But his latest European success shows that he is still competing with purpose rather than looking back on what he has already achieved.

For Shavdatuashvili, age does not define his ability or ambition. He told the EJU that supporters often focus on results and statistics, while the daily work behind elite-level Judo is less visible.

He also addressed criticism that can follow a loss or a period without a medal. In his view, seeing the effort required to stay among the best would change how some people judge an athlete’s performances.

A European title in 2026 added another chapter to an already remarkable Judo career.

The message from Shavdatuashvili is clear: his competitive drive has not faded. With an Olympic medal of every colour, a world title and major European success already secured, the Georgian continues to measure himself by the work still ahead.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union