The battle for qualification: Richard Sipocz

The battles were tough but we know most of the qualified athletes. Next week the IJF will unveil their definite list for the Paris Olympic Games. One of the heavyweights, Richard Sipocz from Hungary won’t be participating.

Sipocz (23) has shown exceptional talent in the +100 kg weight category from a young age. Despite his youth, Sipocz has made a name for himself with significant achievements on both the junior and senior stages.

Sipocz began his judo journey in 2006. Training at Szese in Gyor under the guidance of coaches Hangyási László Botond and Gyimes Nikoletta Márta, he quickly developed his skills and started competing in national and international competitions. His preferred technique, uchi-mata, has become a signature move that has earned him many victories.

In recent years, Sipocz has demonstrated his prowess in various prestigious tournaments. He placed ninth in the men's +100 kg category at the 2023 IJF World Championships in Doha, Qatar. His performance in the World Tour has also been noteworthy, securing third place at the 2022 Grand Slams in Baku, Azerbaijan, and Almada, Portugal. Additionally, he finished fifth at the 2023 Grand Slam in Linz, Austria, and the 2022 Grand Slam in Antalya, Turkey.

Sipocz's success extends to European competitions as well. In 2023, he finished fifth in the men's +100 kg category at the European Championships in Montpellier, France. He also claimed first place at the 2022 European Open in Oberwart, Austria. His achievements in youth and junior competitions are impressive, with titles such as triple European U23 champion (2019, 2020, 2022), double European Junior champion (2020, 2021), and double European Cadet champion (2016, 2018).

Beyond his competitive career, Sipocz's personal life and background offer insight into the foundations of his success. Known by his nickname "Ricsi," he enjoys hanging out with friends in his spare time. He credits his best friends, who have always believed in him, as significant influences in his life. Growing up, Sipocz idolized Barna Bor, a three-time Olympian and multiple European championship medallist. Bor's achievements and guidance have had a lasting impact on Sipocz, who now occasionally trains with his childhood hero.

Sipocz's family has also played a crucial role in his journey. His father, Tamás, mother, Éva Pintér, and older sister, Júlia, have provided unwavering support throughout his career. This strong support system, combined with his dedication and talent, has propelled Sipocz to the upper echelons of the judo world.

Despite his impressive record, Sipocz will not be competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The battles for qualification were fierce, and Sipocz fell short of securing his place. However, he remains optimistic about his future in the sport. While he may be absent from the upcoming Olympic Games, his sights set on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Sipocz is determined to continue training and competing at the highest level.

Check the major names of those who will be missing at the Paris Games.