When we talk about perseverance, dedication, and passion for sports, the name Fran Garrigós stands out. This Spanish judoka has not only made his mark on the tatami but also in the hearts of those who follow his journey. With his recent bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Fran proves that the road to greatness is paved with effort, discipline, and a touch of humility.
More Than an Athlete, a Lover of Life
Although judo is his passion and profession, Fran has other hobbies that recharge his energy: practicing sports, enjoying action series, and spending time with his family. “I love traveling and indulging in a burger or pizza after a tough week of training,” he confesses. Favorite series? Anything action-packed to unwind after an intense session on the tatami.
The Origins of a Champion
Did you know Fran started practicing judo at just four years old? It was a decision made by his parents, and from the very beginning, he was hooked. His first mastered technique was the seoi nage, which quickly allowed him to stand out in children’s competitions. Since then, he has continued to grow and refine his technique.
Routines That Build Champions
Fran’s success is no coincidence; his training routine is relentless. From Monday to Friday, he trains twice daily: gym sessions in the morning and tatami sessions in the afternoon. Saturdays are reserved for physical conditioning, depending on the season. One of his recommendations for improving grips and throws is clear: pull-ups, rope climbing, and randoris (training matches).
His favorite technique is the sode tsurikomi goshi, a throw he perfects with constant repetition and grip variations. His advice for mastering it? Start with basic movements and gradually add resistance.
The Strategy of a Mental Warrior
Before facing an opponent, Fran thoroughly studies their matches, focusing on left-handed rivals like himself. “It’s key to know their strengths and weaknesses, but the most important thing is to stick to the planned strategy,” he explains. Additionally, he places great emphasis on ne-waza (ground techniques), as they can make all the difference in evenly matched bouts.
Regarding his mental preparation, he works with psychologist Pablo del Río, focusing on controlling what’s within his power and letting go of the pressure of outcomes. His pre-competition ritual is simple but powerful: stay present and avoid being distracted by what might happen next.
Moments That Define a Career
Among his most memorable matches is the semifinal of the 2023 World Championship against Takato, a favorite whom he managed to defeat to reach the final. But not everything has been easy. Fran vividly recalls his painful defeat at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he was eliminated in the first match. That moment made him question whether to continue in judo, but he found in that frustration the motivation to come back stronger.
Beyond the Tatami: Life Lessons
For Fran, judo has been more than a sport—it has been a school of life. “The most important lesson it has taught me is that with effort, sacrifice, and discipline, you can achieve anything you set your mind to,” he affirms. Outside the tatami, he applies the principles of Kodokan, such as respect and efficiency, to everyday situations.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Fran is a living example that dreams can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. His advice for new judokas is to set clear short, medium, and long-term goals. While he acknowledges making mistakes early on, such as neglecting his weight or ignoring some technical advice, he values these experiences as essential parts of his learning process.
When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave, Fran is clear: “Beyond the results, I’d like to improve judo in Spain and show the next generations that with hard work and effort, you can achieve whatever you set out to do.”
The Future of Judo and His Vision
With judo constantly evolving, Fran highlights the sport’s global growth and how more and more countries are reaching the podium. He’s convinced that judo will continue solidifying itself as one of the most competitive and professional sports on an international level.
A Legacy in the Making
Fran Garrigós is not just an Olympic medalist; he is an example of resilience and dedication. From his first steps in Brunete to claiming bronze in Paris 2024, his story inspires those seeking to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. With every match, Fran builds not only his own history but also a legacy that will take Spanish judo to new heights.
