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Gennadiy BelodedUkrainian judoka
Date of Birth: 22.07.1977
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Olympic Debut
- European Success
- Olympic Returns and World Bronze
- Beijing Olympics and Career Conclusion
- Legacy
- Family
Early Life and Career
Gennadiy Bilodid, a Ukrainian judoka, was born on July 22, 1977, in Kyiv, Ukrainian SSR. Beginning his judo journey at a young age, he honed his skills at the Kyiv Sports Lyceum and later joined Dynamo Kyiv.
Olympic Debut
In 2000, Bilodid made his Olympic debut at the Sydney Games, where he advanced through the first two rounds before falling in the quarterfinals.
European Success
The following year, he triumphed at the European Championships in Paris, winning gold in the lightweight division. In 2003, he repeated his success at the European Championships in Dusseldorf.
Olympic Returns and World Bronze
Bilodid qualified for the 2004 Athens Olympics and once again reached the quarterfinals, this time losing to the eventual Olympic champion. In 2005, he earned a bronze medal at the World Championships in Cairo.
Beijing Olympics and Career Conclusion
Competing in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Bilodid defeated Russian judoka Salambek Madzhidov but was eliminated in the third round. He continued his career until 2010, earning a bronze medal in a New York tournament before retiring.
Legacy
Bilodid's distinguished career culminated in the honorary titles of "Honored Master of Sports of Ukraine" and "Honored Worker of Physical Culture and Sports of Ukraine." He holds a higher education degree and now works as a judo coach.
Family
Bilodid's wife, Svetlana Kuznetsova, is a master of sports in judo, while his daughter, Daria, is a world and European judo champion.
