Gilberto Cardoso was born 17 March 1999 in Queretaro, Mexico. He is in the -73kg weight category in Judo. Gilberto was ranked number 1 on the IJF World Ranking list for juniors in the -73kg weight category in 2018. He has won a total of 6 Continental Championship medals (1 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze). Gilberto also has 3 gold medals from Continental Cups and a bronze medal from the Dushanbe Grand Prix in 2023.
Can you tell us about your journey into judo and how you got started?
I was introduced to judo through my family. My dad and uncles practiced judo during their childhood, and one of my uncles continued practicing up to the university level.
What attracted you to judo as a sport?
I was drawn to judo because it is a highly comprehensive sport that requires both physical and mental strength, as well as strategic thinking and tactical execution.
How do you prepare yourself mentally before a competition?
I employ meditation techniques to mentally prepare and relax myself before a competition. I also reflect on my physical and technical abilities, which helps me build confidence for the upcoming fights.
How do you handle the pressure and nerves that come with competing at a high level in judo?
To manage pressure and nerves, I engage in visualization exercises and practice pre-competition meditation. By envisioning different fight scenarios, I am able to feel secure and confident in the competitive environment.
Could you share a memorable moment from your judo career that has had a significant impact on you?
One of the most memorable moments in my judo career was during the last junior Pan-American tournament in 2019. Despite feeling physically and mentally unwell, I was about to compete in the semi-finals against a strong Brazilian opponent. I managed to convince myself to feel good and strong, which led to my victory in the tournament. This experience had a profound impact on me and boosted my self-belief.
What does it mean to you to have won a Bronze medal at the Dushanbe Grand Prix, your first medal on the World Judo Tour?
Winning a Bronze medal at the Dushanbe Grand Prix holds immense significance for me. It represents my first medal on the judo tour, fulfilling a childhood dream that I had worked hard to achieve. This accomplishment also contributed to a mindset shift, enhancing my self-confidence and belief in my abilities.
Can you describe the experience of competing at the Dushanbe Grand Prix and how it felt to stand on the podium?
Competing at the Dushanbe Grand Prix was an extraordinary experience. I felt remarkably good, completely focused, and thoroughly enjoyed the entire competition. Standing on the podium alongside elite judokas, in front of a grand stage, and receiving the beautiful medals awarded to the medallists was truly spectacular.
Tell us more about your competition day at the Dushanbe Grand Prix and your fights.
On the competition day at the Dushanbe Grand Prix, everything seemed to fall into place. The thought of losing never crossed my mind. Although I anticipated tough and intense fights, I approached each one with intelligence and intensity to secure victory.
In your opinion, what sets judo apart from other martial arts or combat sports?
Judo stands out from other sports due to its exceptional quality. The sport boasts a larger number of competitors, all operating at a high level. The competitions are well-organized, and detailed statistics are maintained for each competitor. Additionally, judo emphasizes respect and effort, values that may not be as prominently promoted in other martial arts.
Can you talk about the importance of mental resilience and how it plays a role in your judo career?
Mental resilience is of utmost importance in judo. The sport is highly unpredictable, and it teaches us to handle both victory and defeat while pushing us to strive harder for our goals. Judo prepares us to face challenging moments and equips us with the skills necessary to overcome them.
Could you share an example of a particularly challenging opponent you faced in a competition, and how you adapted your strategy to overcome them?
In the bronze fight at the Dushanbe Grand Prix against the Azerbaijani opponent, I found myself trailing with two shidos. I knew I had to score to secure the win. However, I remained focused and composed, realizing that I needed to surprise my opponent with a strategic move. I executed the plan flawlessly, and it turned out to be highly successful, leading me to victory.
Describe a time when you faced a setback in your judo journey. How did you bounce back from it?
In my first cadet year, I faced setbacks as I missed out on national competitions due to losses. However, I didn’t let those setbacks deter me. Instead, I used them as fuel to train even harder. The following year, my perseverance paid off, and I became the national cadet champion, bouncing back from the initial setback.
What role does teamwork play in judo, and how do you collaborate with your training partners to improve your skills?
Teamwork plays a crucial role in judo. It is essential to have supportive training partners who actively engage in practice sessions, enabling us to enhance our skills. We work collaboratively, practicing various techniques, and providing each other with valuable feedback and guidance, which ultimately helps us grow and improve as judokas.
What are some of the key skills and techniques you believe are essential for success in judo?
Effort, perseverance, and discipline are key skills and qualities that I believe are essential for success in judo. It requires continuous effort and dedication to excel in the sport. Perseverance is necessary to overcome challenges and setbacks. Lastly, discipline is crucial in maintaining a rigorous training routine and adhering to the principles of judo.
Judo often involves intense physical contact and can lead to injuries. How do you take care of your body and prevent injuries during training and competitions?
To take care of my body and prevent injuries, I prioritize pre-training and pre-competition routines that include stretching and strengthening exercises. These exercises help prepare my body for the physical demands of judo. Additionally, I ensure proper warm-up and cool-down sessions before and after training. If I do sustain an injury, I prioritize rest and seek professional help, such as physical therapy, to facilitate a full recovery before returning to intense training or competitions.
What advice would you give to aspiring judo athletes who are looking to make their mark in the sport?
For aspiring judo athletes, I would advise them to wholeheartedly pursue their passion for the sport. Making a mark in judo requires dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance. Be prepared to work hard and consistently strive for improvement.
Surround yourself with a supportive team and coaching staff who will guide you on your journey. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and never underestimate the power of resilience. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity. With unwavering determination and commitment, you can make your mark in the world of judo.
