In a story that echoes hope, discipline, and the quiet revolution brewing in India's sporting heartlands, 18-year-old Linthoi Chanambam from Mayang Imphal, Manipur, carved her name into history. With fierce determination and flawless technique, she became the first Indian judoka to win gold at the Berlin Junior European Judo Cup 2025, triumphing in the -63kg category. Her final victory against France’s Jaelynn Chipan was more than just a match; it was a moment of reckoning for Indian judo and for a nation learning to dream bigger in lesser-known sports.

From Manipur to Berlin: The Making of a Champion

Linthoi's journey began at the tender age of eight in the culturally rich but often overlooked region of Mayang Imphal in Manipur. By 2017, her raw talent and iron will had caught the attention of scouts from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), a cutting-edge training facility that would soon become her second home. Under the mentorship of Georgian coach Mamuka Kizilashvili, Linthoi honed her craft with an unmatched work ethic. 

Her steady rise from national sub-junior gold in 2018 to senior national gold in 2021, and then double gold at the 2022 Asian Cadet and Junior Championships in Bangkok—speaks volumes of her consistency and resilience. Linthoi’s shift to the -63kg weight class turned out to be a smart move. After winning the 2022 Cadet World Championship in the -57kg category, her success in the new category shows how well she can adapt and how determined she is to succeed at the global level.

The Berlin Breakthrough: Redefining India’s Judo Narrative

 The Berlin Junior European Judo Cup brought together 618 athletes from 37 countries, representing the very best in emerging judo talent. Linthoi stood out not only for her powerful throws and technical clarity but also for her mental composure, a trait rarely seen in athletes so young. In a stunning campaign, she overcame a series of top-seeded European opponents. Her decisive victory resonated not just with her coaches and supporters but with the wider Indian sports community.

“This win means everything,” Behind Linthoi’s golden moment lies a story of personal sacrifice, family support, and the transformative power of sport. Raised in a modest household in Manipur—an area often in the headlines for socio-political unrest—Linthoi represents more than just sporting excellence. She symbolizes hope, a new narrative, and the result of persistent effort in the face of adversity.

What is Judo?

Judo is a modern martial art and Olympic sport that originated in Japan in 1882, founded by Jigoro Kano. The word “judo” means “the gentle way,” and it focuses on using technique, balance, and leverage rather than strength. Unlike martial arts that involve striking, judo emphasizes throws, pins, and submission techniques like joint locks and strangles (for older age groups). The main goal in a judo match is to throw your opponent cleanly onto their back, hold them down for 20 seconds, or make them submit. 

A perfect throw or a successful hold-down earns an ippon, which ends the match instantly. A waza-ari (half point) is given for a near-perfect move, and two waza-aris equal one ippon. Matches typically last four minutes, and if there's no winner by then, they go into overtime (golden score). Penalties called shido are given for breaking rules, being passive, or avoiding the fight; three shidos mean disqualification. Judo players wear a white or blue judogi (uniform), and the color of their belt shows their skill level. It is a sport of discipline, respect, and mental strength, teaching athletes how to use an opponent’s energy to their advantage.

Impact on Indian Judo and Olympic Dreams

The Judo Federation of India and officials at Inspire Institute of Sport have hailed Linthoi’s gold medal as a watershed moment for Indian judo. With international medals traditionally elusive, especially at prestigious European competitions, her performance may trigger increased funding, visibility, and participation in the sport. Her win also positions her as a strong medal prospect for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With three more years to evolve, she is expected to climb higher in global rankings, bringing with her the aspirations of a nation hungry for success beyond cricket.

A Name That Will Resonate for Years

Linthoi Chanambam’s historic win at the Berlin Junior European Cup 2025 will not fade as just another medal. This is just the beginning of a big change—a ray of hope for athletes from lesser-known places and sports. With her eyes on the Olympics and the whole country cheering for her, Linthoi has already made her mark in Indian sports history.