HIDAYAT HEYDAROV: 'NEW RULES DO NOT SCARE US'

Hidayat Heydarov, a member of the Azerbaijani national team, has been recognised as the "Best Judoka of the Year" among men by the International Judo Federation. In a short period, he won the European Championship, then became the World Champion, and subsequently secured first place at the Summer Olympics in Paris. With all possible titles under his belt, the coaches allowed the champion to take a break after his intense competitions in 2024, and he went on holiday.

In his exclusive interview with Region Plus, Hidayat HEYDAROV shared his plans and thoughts on the new rules in judo.

"How is your holiday going?"

"After the Olympics, there was a need for rest. I relaxed a bit with my loved ones and relieved my fatigue. I started training again at the beginning of the year. I'm trying to gradually regain my best form. This year, I will participate in several prestigious competitions."

"You did not compete in the Grand Slam tournament held in Baku from February 14-16. Can you share the reason?"

"This decision was made after discussions with the coaching staff. The European Judo Championships will take place in Montenegro in April. So you will see me on the tatami at the continental competition."

"Is the four-time European champion heading to Montenegro for a new record?"

"My goal is to return home with another victory. I have won the continental championship four times, and I will approach the competitions with the same enthusiasm. I want to become a five-time European champion."

"What has changed in your life since winning all titles in 2024?"

"(Laughs) I have become more well-known after the Olympics. Now people ask to take photos with me on the street and greet me everywhere. An athlete who has experienced the joy of Olympic victory is considered very fortunate. Opponents are now specially preparing to fight against me. They will try to defeat the Olympic champion. I very much wish to maintain my position at the top."

"The International Judo Federation has introduced changes to the rules after the Olympics. Do you think these might pose challenges for Azerbaijani judokas?"

"The specialists have made changes to certain rules to enhance the beauty of judo. The main aim is to create conditions for judokas to achieve ippon (a clean victory). Azerbaijani judokas do not shy away from the new rules; they do not intimidate us. On the contrary, they allow us to compete more comfortably. At the same time, we have enough time to adapt to these new regulations."

"Judo legend, five-time Olympic champion, and twelve-time world champion Teddy Riner currently ranks as one of the most popular athletes in the world. Are you familiar with him?"

"Teddy Riner is a living legend not only in judo but also in global sports. This man never tires of winning. It is a great honour for me that such a master mentions me. We know each other and meet at competitions. I have not watched the entire interview, but his words evoked pleasant feelings in me. Teddy Riner is an "iron" athlete who always finishes first in tournaments he participates in. The number of medals in his collection is incredibly vast... I am proud to represent Azerbaijani sport alongside him."

"Who is your main rival in your weight category?"

"My main opponent is myself. Today, I am one of the favourites in my weight class, but I try not to focus on that. I train harder because I dream of performing well at the Los Angeles Games. It would not be wise to think that I am currently at the top of the world rankings; otherwise, I would not be able to work comfortably during training."

"How do you assess the development of judo in Azerbaijan?"

"In 2008, when Elnur Mammadli won a gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, judo experienced a significant surge. Last year, Azerbaijan claimed two gold medals in this sport, which greatly boosted its popularity. The number of judo clubs has increased, and most importantly, people have begun to love judo more. I must also highlight the work done by the Judo Federation of Azerbaijan in this regard."

"There are very few athletes who achieve all titles at a young age. What do you wish for now that you hold almost all awards?"

"Now I really want to become European champion again. Yes, I have been four times before, but this fifth championship will be different. I eagerly desire to win a gold medal at the World Championship for a second time. One of my main life goals is the 2028 Olympics. I want to hear our anthem once again at that Olympic event. As an athlete, I aim to increase my number of titles. Sometimes it is said that Azerbaijani athletes struggle to reach the top again after becoming champions once. I will try to prove otherwise. In my view, I can achieve this. Thank you for all the attention directed towards me. It is not always possible to communicate with everyone due to time constraints. I truly value and appreciate all the support and attention from everyone. I will strive to always justify the love of our people!"