A judo champion has expressed surprise at being suspended for five months after making the sign of the cross during this year’s Olympic Games.
Serbian athlete Nemanja Majdov, 28, was informed by the International Judo Federation (IJF) that he is banned from competing until early next year for “showing a clear religious sign when entering the field of play,” in violation of the organization’s rules. Majdov was seen making the sign of the cross during the Olympics in Paris on July 31.
Weeks later, he received his suspension from the IJF.
In an Instagram post, Majdov shared his disappointment, stating he was “sorry that such a beautiful and difficult sport like judo has fallen to such things.” However, he remains unapologetic about making the sign of the cross and plans to return to the sport next year.
Reflecting on his Christian faith, Majdov often shares photos on Instagram of himself praying before competitions.
“15 days ago I received a decision that I was suspended for 5 months by the World Judo Federation (IJF) for violating their religious codes.
“More precisely, because of [making a sign of the cross] when entering a match at the Olympic Games.
“I was banned from participating in all tournaments, camps and preparations.
“True, in the defence letter of the disciplinary proceedings I did not want to apologise… and of course I did not, nor will I ever, although I did not even know what the punishment could be.
“The Lord has given me everything, both for me personally and for my career, and he is number 1 for me and I am proud of that. And that will not change under any circumstances. Glory to Him and thanks for everything.
“Nothing new for me personally, just a new page in my career and a new life experience. I’m sorry that such a beautiful and difficult sport like judo has fallen to such things.
“God gave me a great career, 7 European and 3 world medals. When I started, I dreamed of winning at least one big medal and thus succeeding in my life and the life of my family, who sacrificed everything for my career.”
