Joshua Katz
Joshua Katz (AU)
Biography
At the young age of 18, Joshua Katz became Australia's youngest male judoka to compete at the Olympic Games during Rio 2016. His journey into judo started strong, having clinched the junior national championships in 2013 and 2014, and dominating the junior Oceania Championships for four consecutive years. By 2015, he won his first senior Oceania title and successfully defended it in 2016, earning himself an automatic spot in the Rio Olympics. His Olympic debut was challenging as he faced Uzbekistani fighter Diyorbek Urozboev in the opening round, bowing out by ippon. But the experience was invaluable, marking the beginning of a promising career.
Joshua comes from a family deeply rooted in judo; his brother Nathan also competed in Rio, making them the first Australian brothers to ever do so in the sport. Their parents have impressive judo credentials as well—his mother Kerrye participated in the Seoul 1988 Olympics, and his father Robert has coached at major international events including Rio.
The journey wasn't always smooth; after Rio, Joshua battled injuries and the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic. Missing out on the Tokyo Olympics was a turning point. 'I think I really took Rio for granted,' he reflects. That realization fueled his resurgence, bringing a newfound appreciation for every moment on the mat.
Joshua rebounded in style at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, securing a bronze medal in the men's 60kg category. The same year, he also became national champion and medaled in various international competitions, including a bronze in the European Open in Sarajevo and a silver in Warsaw.
Balancing his athletic pursuits with academics, Joshua completed a double degree in exercise and sports science and sport management. He and his brother Nathan, who retired in 2023 and now coaches Joshua, also run a speaking and mentoring business.
With eyes set firmly on Paris 2024, Joshua continues to compete globally, driven by the lessons of his past and the support of his family and coaches.