2026 US Open Judo Championships is officially getting underway as athletes from across the United States and internationally prepare to compete in one of the biggest judo events in America.
The tournament, which has been running for more than 38 years, will take place in Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida from July 22–29, 2026, with major activities centered around the Greater Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Convention Center and surrounding hotels.
Organizers have been promoting the 2026 edition as both a high-level competition and a full experience for athletes and fans visiting South Florida.
What Is the US Open Judo Championships?
Held under the sanction of USA Judo, the event features junior, senior and veteran divisions while awarding national ranking points to eligible U.S. athletes.
The US Open has become one of the premier annual judo tournaments in the United States, regularly drawing competitors, coaches and international participants from multiple countries.
One fan comment shared online described the event as:
“Best competition in the USA.”
Where Will the 2026 US Open Judo Championships Take Place?
Tournament activities including registration, weigh-ins, coaches meetings, referee meetings and training camps are expected to take place at the Hilton Marina Hotel and nearby convention center locations in Fort Lauderdale.
Organizers also noted that the Marriott Harbor Beach hotel is already heavily booked for the event weekend.
When Is the 2026 US Open Judo Championships?
According to official registration details, athlete check-ins begin July 22, while the broader US Open week runs through July 29.
The event includes divisions for:
- Juniors
- Seniors
- Veterans
- Novice competitors
- Golden Score athletes
What Awards and Prizes Will Be Given Out at the US Open Judo Championships?
The 2026 US Open will once again feature championship rings for all gold medal winners, one of the event’s signature traditions highlighted heavily in promotional material.
The tournament will also present several special awards, including:
- Most Outstanding Referee Award
- Most Improved Referee Award
- Senior Yoni Camal Memorial Award
- Senior Frank Fullerton Inspirational Award
- Best All Around Senior Male and Female
- Best All Around Veteran Male and Female
- Fastest Ippon awards
- Most Ippon awards
- Overall Ippon awards
USA Judo also confirmed national points will be awarded to eligible athletes competing throughout the tournament week.
Why the US Open Remains Important in American Judo
The US Open continues to serve as a major gathering point for American judo talent, giving athletes the chance to compete for national points while facing opponents from different regions and countries.
Its long-running history, national recognition and international participation have helped keep it one of the most recognizable annual judo events in the United States.
