A Serbian judo champion, Nemanja Majdov, has been handed a five-month suspension for making the sign of the cross after his match in the Paris Olympic Games, leaving many stunned at the overreach of the International Judo Federation (IJF).
Majdov, a proud Christian and accomplished athlete, has been barred from participating in any IJF-sanctioned events until February next year, according to Breitbart.
His crime? Simply making a gesture of faith after a hard-fought match.
The IJF claims Majdov violated its so-called “rules of comportment” by displaying a religious sign on the field of play. The incident in question occurred on July 31, when the 28-year-old judoka made the sign of the cross as he walked away from the mat. And for that, he now faces a five-month suspension.
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Majdov, however, isn’t backing down. In a public statement on Instagram, the judo star made it clear that while the IJF might try to silence his faith, he stands firm in his beliefs.
“Fifteen days ago, I received a notice from the World Judo Federation about a five-month suspension for violating religious codes. More precisely, for crossing myself when entering a fight at the Olympic Games,” he said, confirming the suspension. “I am prohibited from participating in all tournaments, training camps, and training.”
Majdov is unapologetic about his stance. “The Lord has given me everything, both for me personally and for my career, and he is number one for me, and I am proud of that,” Majdov said, refusing to backtrack on his faith. “And that will not change under any circumstances.”
This isn’t the first time Majdov has been warned by the IJF, with past citations issued in 2016 and 2022 for similar gestures of faith. Yet, the proud Serbian remains steadfast, knowing that his success and accomplishments come from a higher power. With seven European medals and three world medals, Majdov credits his victories to God, adding that “Glory to Him, and thanks for everything.”
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In contrast, the IJF maintains that their strict rule forbidding “the display of any religious, political, ethnic, or other sign” is to ensure respect and equality. Yet, it’s hard not to see this move as part of a larger trend—one where Christian athletes face penalties simply for expressing their faith, while other ideologies and displays seem to get a free pass.
Despite his suspension, Majdov remains hopeful and is using this time to rest and prepare for his return. “We will rest until then, and then we will return with the help of our Lord Jesus Christ to a new beginning and new victories,” he concluded, standing firm in his faith.
While some may argue that sports should remain neutral grounds, Majdov’s suspension for such a personal and harmless act of faith has raised important questions about freedom of expression and religious liberty. Athletes like Majdov should be celebrated for their beliefs and dedication—not silenced.
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