Natalie Powell Announces Retirement from Judo

Former World and European Championships medallist Natalie Powell has officially announced her retirement from judo, closing the chapter on an illustrious career. Powell, who became Great Britain’s first-ever female World No. 1 in the -78kg category in 2017, has been a mainstay of British Judo for over a decade, competing in two Olympic Games and earning medals on the international stage.

Hailing from Irfon Judo Club in Builth Wells, Wales, Powell made her debut on the world stage at the 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where she immediately showed her potential by winning a silver medal. Over her career, Powell amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including nine Grand Slam medals and 21 Grand Prix medals. She also claimed bronze at the World Championships in 2017 and at three consecutive European Championships from 2016 to 2018.

One of her standout achievements was winning gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Competing in front of a home crowd, Powell delivered a dominant performance to secure the top spot on the podium. Though judo was not included in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Powell returned in 2022 to win a silver medal in Birmingham.

Reflecting on her retirement, Powell expressed her deep gratitude for the experiences and relationships judo has given her. “After over 20 incredible years travelling the world as part of the British and Welsh judo team, the time has come for me to hang up my judogi and step into the next chapter,” she said. Powell added that judo has taught her she’s “capable of much more” than she ever believed, and thanked her coaches, teammates, and mentors for their support throughout her career.

Powell gave special recognition to her coach Darren Warner, who she credited with transforming her career after 2014. “You made me believe that anything was possible,” she said. Powell also expressed appreciation for British Judo’s support and singled out Kate Howey for her unwavering mentorship and guidance throughout the highs and lows of her journey.

British Judo Performance Director Nigel Donohue praised Powell’s dedication and success, calling her a “fantastic athlete” who has had a stellar career. “Natalie was a hard-working, driven and professional athlete, and an all-round nice person who was a pleasure to have as part of the World Class Performance Programme,” Donohue said, adding that he has no doubt Powell will find success in her future endeavors.

Kate Howey, a key figure in Powell’s development, reflected on their time together, saying, “I have worked with Natalie for a very long time and had the pleasure of coaching her through World and European medals, and two Olympic Games. I feel privileged to have been part of her judo journey.”

Jamie Johnson, Women’s Olympic Head Coach, also praised Powell’s professionalism and commitment to improving, even in the latter stages of her career. “She is a true professional and a very loyal person. I’m sure she’ll carry all her experience into the next phase of her life, whatever she chooses to do.”

As Natalie Powell steps away from competitive judo, she leaves behind a legacy of determination, resilience, and inspiration. She has been a role model for aspiring judoka across Wales, Great Britain, and beyond, and her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.