Bilodide’s “Message on the Obi of Judogi” Appeals for Peace
While the war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine intensifies, Dalia Bilodyd (Ukraine), a bronze medalist in women’s 48 kg judo at the Tokyo Olympics and known as a too-beautiful judoka, has embroidered a message of peace on the belt of her judo uniform that is attracting attention. Fans have commented sympathetically, “I hope the war will end soon,” and “Peace to Ukraine.”
In the first photo, Bilodid is wearing a judo gi with the Ukrainian flag on his chest and holding a blue obi embroidered in yellow with the words “#JUDOFORUKRAINE” (Judo for Ukraine). He looks very powerful. The other is a blue and yellow belt with “PEACE” (peace) and “STOP THE WAR” (stop the war) embroidered in white.
In fact, Bilodid seems to have taken refuge in Spain from Ukraine, where the fighting was becoming more and more intense. He has taken refuge with a Spanish judoka and says, “I thank everyone who has helped me. I am happy to be part of this big judo family,” he said on Instagram.
Bilodid, now 21, won the 2018 World Championships at the age of 17, breaking the record for the youngest competitor, and won the following year’s World Championships as well, winning back-to-back titles. Her nickname is “Anaconda” because of her long arms and legs. She never misses her prey. She was also a candidate for the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, but ended up with the bronze medal. On the other hand, her beauty is also attracting worldwide attention.
Since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops, she has been reporting on the situation in Ukraine on her Instagram every day. She also called for donations for her fans in Japan. While fans were moved by such hard work by Bilodyd, there must be many fans who wish that he would “do judo as much as he wants.
Bilodido bears the wishes of his country. The message on the obi and the expression on his face as he holds it convey an extraordinary aura. I hope this war will end soon. And I hope he wins the gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
