World Champion Nemanja Majdov back in the Tour after recovery period

The Grand Prix in Agadir will host some top athletes. One of the athlete who we are looking forward to is World Champion Nemanja Majdov of Serbia. The IJF spoke to Nemanja and asked him what has he been up to, seven months after his world title?

NM: I was on rehab for my injuries. I was also injured for the Worlds. At Europeans in 2nd fight I broke 2 ligaments of right shoulder, but I knew that now there is no much time for rest and I'm going forward through pain. In Cancun GP I broke tendon of my foot, also 20 days before Worlds I broke 1 ligaments of left shoulder at training...too many injuries and my coach changed the plan for my training 3 times, we was even close to cancelling the Worlds, but I said no way. I promise something and I will win it. In the quarter final against the Ushangi Margiani I broke rib but that day I was really mentally strong. And after Worlds I took time to heal my all body, I didn't expect this long a period but it was essential.

IJF: Why did you pick Agadir Grand Prix to return?

NM: The plan was to be back in January but it didn’t work out with my shoulder, then I wanted to come back at the Paris Grand Slam but I broke and dislocated a toe five days before, and it’s now Agadir Grand Prix. I need to compete, because it’s too long to be away without my real passion.

IJF: Your first and only IJF gold medal is the most important one, the World Championships. You could make a perfect start to your reason if you can win a Grand Prix title in Agadir.

NM: I hope for a really good comeback in Agadir. Seven months out is not a small period, lot of mental pressure is on me, but I am sure this weekend will be great and I will really enjoy my judo. I'm ready to roll. My goal for this year is to win everything and to be undefeated, but my main goal is to defend my world title, that's the real deal.