Before Tbilisi, Krpálek shows why his mission now goes beyond medals

As the European Championships in Tbilisi get closer, Lukáš Krpálek remains one of the biggest names in European judo. But this time, the most interesting part is not only his record. It is the reason he still keeps stepping onto the tatami after already reaching the top of the sport.

The Czech heavyweight has won two Olympic titles, two world titles and three European crowns. Even with that résumé, he says the motivation is still there. He wants to keep improving, keep testing his limits and prove to himself that he can still challenge for the highest medals.

For Krpálek, the next tournament is not about the past. It is about purpose.

What stands out is how his relationship with judo has changed. Earlier in his career, winning and proving himself were at the centre of everything. Now he describes judo as part of who he is, something that has shaped his discipline, mindset and personality over many years.

That shift matters ahead of Tbilisi. Krpálek says another strong result at the European Championships would mean more than just adding to an already elite collection of achievements. At this stage, he wants younger athletes to see that success is not built only on talent. In his view, persistence, consistency and the right mentality are just as important.

He also speaks honestly about the challenge of staying at this level. The physical demands get tougher with age, but the deeper battle is internal. After so much success, hunger does not come automatically. It has to be protected through humility and daily work.

That mindset now shapes the way he competes. Krpálek says he is calmer and more patient than before, relying more on experience and tactical reading in matches. Mentally, he feels stronger because he has already lived through so many high-pressure moments.

For European judo, that makes his presence in Tbilisi feel important beyond the scoreboard. Krpálek is still chasing big performances, but he is also carrying a message: long careers at the top are possible when discipline and belief do not fade.

Source: EJU_News