On 14 October 1989, Great Britain celebrated one of its finest days in judo history as Karen Briggs and Sharon Rendle both claimed world titles at the World Judo Championships in Belgrade. It was a day to remember for British judo, with two of the nation’s leading women once again showing their dominance on the international stage.
For Karen Briggs, competing in the under 48 kilogram category, her triumph marked a remarkable fourth world title, following her earlier victories in 1982, 1984 and 1986. Already established as one of the greatest lightweight judoka of her era, Briggs demonstrated her trademark composure, strength and determination throughout the competition. Known for her speed, technical precision and relentless attacking style, she advanced through the rounds with authority, saving her sharpest performance for the final where she secured her place at the top of the podium once again.
Briggs’s fourth title confirmed her as one of Britain’s most successful and consistent judoka. Her sustained excellence across much of the decade was a reflection of her extraordinary discipline and competitive mindset. Few athletes could maintain such a high standard over so many years, and her success in Belgrade added another proud chapter to a glittering career.
In the under 52 kilogram category, Sharon Rendle also produced a superb display of skill and composure to capture her second world title, having first won the crown in 1987. Rendle’s judo was defined by her versatility and tactical awareness, combining strong groundwork with a sharp sense of timing in her throwing techniques. She battled through a tough field with focus and confidence, and in the final, she once again showed the precision and poise that made her a world champion.
Rendle’s second title reinforced her reputation as one of the sport’s most accomplished competitors of the period. Her ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different opponents reflected both her experience and her strategic intelligence on the mat.
The double triumph of Briggs and Rendle in Belgrade underlined the strength and depth of British women’s judo during the 1980s. Their victories inspired future generations and demonstrated the power of commitment, hard work and belief. For British judo, it was a defining moment, proof that the nation could compete with the very best in the world.
That October day in Belgrade remains one of the proudest in British judo history, when Karen Briggs and Sharon Rendle stood side by side as world champions, their achievements celebrated not only for the medals they won but for the lasting legacy they created in the sport.