Judo Star Anna-Maria Wagner Reflects on Glory and Goodbye Before Retirement

Ravensburg, Germany - In a heartfelt announcement that resonates with the spirit of sport, German judoka Anna-Maria Wagner has revealed plans to retire after the 2025 season. A prominent figure in the judo world, Wagner, who hails from Ravensburg, has experienced both triumph and turmoil throughout her career. With notable achievements including two World Championship titles and Olympic medals, her journey has been far from straightforward.

Wagner’s illustrious career features several peaks, such as her victories at the World Championships in 2021 and 2024 and her two bronze medals earned during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, it is also marked by challenges that tested her resilience. Following her success at the Tokyo Games, she fell into a mental struggle that impacted her performances. In an emotional turn, by the time she competed in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Wagner did not manage to secure a medal, a disappointment made more intense by an injury sustained in her second match, which hindered her performance and outcome during the competition.

Facing Challenges

The mental aspect of judo has become a central theme in Wagner’s narrative. „The people saw my medals, but they didn’t see how it really was for me,“ she reflected in an interview. This statement highlights her struggle with the weight of expectations and the psychological toll that competitive sports can bring. Research, including findings from a recent systematic review on judo athletes, indicates that psychological parameters such as anxiety and motivation significantly affect performance and well-being. These insights underscore the importance of mental training as a crucial component of an athlete’s journey, allowing them to manage not just physical but also emotional challenges according to PMC.

Wagner’s decision to retire stems from her desire for change and a shift away from dedicating every aspect of her life to judo. „I don’t want to sacrifice everything for sports anymore,“ she noted, suggesting a profound transformation in her outlook on life and career. This sense of balance may guide her future endeavors, including a promising career in the hotel industry, as she finishes her studies in Hotel and Tourism Management.

A Glimpse into the Future

An exciting new chapter for Wagner includes the release of her upcoming photo book, which aims to document her last two years in sports. Titled „Am Ende zahlt sich alles aus – Anna-Maria Wagners Weg zu den Olympischen Spielen 2024,“ the book offers more than just photographs; it encapsulates a journey filled with training camps, competitions, and personal reflections. Priced at €41.95, the book will also contribute to a noble cause, with €10 from each sale going towards the “Home of Athletes” initiative, aimed at providing psychological support for young athletes. Pre-orders start on May 5, 2025, promising insight for aspiring athletes and enthusiasts alike.

Perhaps the pinnacle of Wagner’s Olympic experience was serving as the flag bearer for Germany during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics, an honor she shared with basketball star Dennis Schröder. It was a moment of joy amid a complicated competitive landscape, showcasing her strength as well as her vulnerability. Wagner’s journey is a potent reminder that every athlete’s story is layered with both achievements and personal battles.

As the judo community and her fans watch this transition, they can appreciate the multitude of experiences that shaped Anna-Maria Wagner. With her eyes set on new horizons, her story continues to inspire not only athletes but everyone who faces challenges in their own lives. After all, in her words, „there’s something to be said for it“ when one recognizes the courage it takes to step back and seek a new path.