Judoka Asmita Dey focuses on ground techniques ahead of Asian Games debut

The 23-year-old judoka, who made history as the first Indian to claim gold in judo at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, acknowledged that the Asian Games will present a significantly tougher challenge than her previous competition. Dey told PTI Videos that she is dedicating substantial training time to perfecting holds, pins and submission techniques—collectively known as Ne-Waza in judo terminology.

"The Asian Games will be very challenging compared to the Commonwealth Games," Dey said, noting that the continental competition features some of the world's highest-ranked judokas, positioned between seventh and fourteenth in global rankings. She emphasised the need to sharpen her ground game strategies as a critical component of her overall preparation for the event starting September 19.

Japan's dominance in judo presents a particular concern for Dey, who views the sport's birthplace as both an inspiration and a formidable obstacle. "Japan is our master in judo, and if I reach the final, my opponent will most likely be Japanese," she explained, underscoring her strategic focus on Ne-Waza techniques as essential preparation for potential matchups against elite Japanese competitors.

Dey's maiden appearance at the Asian Games marks a significant milestone in her international judo career, representing India's growing strength in a sport traditionally dominated by Asian powerhouses.