Paris 2024 Olympics - Arnold Kisoka: "Ground-fighting technique is a problem for African and Congolese judo"
It proved a steep learning curve for Arnold Kisoka at the Olympic Games. Knocked out in the first round of the judo, he looks back on his bout.
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Sport News Africa: Arnold Kisoka, your first Olympics and you go out in your opening bout. Is it fair to say it was a tough learning experience?
Arnold Kisoka: No, I wouldn't say it was a tough learning experience. The Olympic Games are very high level. I have certainly gained experience by taking part in the latest competitions, both at continental and world level, but the Olympic Games remain at a very high standard.
You made a good start to your bout, with plenty of attacks, and your opponent was given a penalty. What happened next for you to lose?
In Africa we are a bit limited compared with athletes from other continents, especially in terms of ground-fighting techniques. Almost all the Africans were eliminated early on. Especially the Congolese. We are strong when standing, but once we go to the ground it gets difficult.
Read also: Paris 2024: Congolese Arnold Kisoka among the Olympic flame bearers
What needs to be done to fix this lack of ground-fighting technique?
We often need to go on training camps abroad, or else bring experts to the country to learn. Other countries are already doing it with the backing of their respective governments. And these camps need to be regular to raise our level. If you look closely, many of the wins at these Games came on the ground, and for us, lacking ground-fighting technique, it was difficult. At the Francophonie Games I had already lost on the ground in the semi-final, and it happened again at the Olympics.
Is this training necessary only for the athletes, or for Congolese technical staff as well?
Training is important for everyone. Athletes or technical staff, we all need a refresher. The Maghreb countries are already doing it, so why not us in the DRC?
Are you disappointed with your first Olympic Games?
Yes, I am disappointed. Especially given that the circumstances of the defeat were similar to those of my semi-final exit at the Francophonie Games. I'm good standing up, but once on the ground, it's difficult. It's a big disappointment. I was motivated to put in a good performance, and to lose after just over a minute is a huge disappointment for me.
Did you lose heart after this setback?
No, I'm a champion, I can't lose heart. I'll bounce back quickly because there are still several competitions ahead of me.