Stuart McWatt Announces Retirement from Competitive Judo

Stuart McWatt, a former European Cup and European Open medalist, has announced his retirement from judo after a ten-year career. Having risen through the ranks from Pre-Cadet and Cadet levels at Garioch Judo in Scotland, where his father serves as Head Coach, McWatt dedicated his life to the sport. In 2015, he joined the British Judo National Training Centre in England full-time, under the guidance of coaches including Matt Purssey and Dennis Stuart.

McWatt’s decision to retire stems from a series of injuries that impacted him physically and mentally, with five surgeries over his career. Reflecting on his choice, he expressed a desire to prioritize his long-term health. “After my last injury, I started looking at life after judo,” McWatt said, emphasizing his wish to remain active for his future family.

Despite the setbacks, McWatt has fond memories, particularly from his return in 2017 when he played a vital role in securing a bronze medal for Great Britain in the European Championships Team Event, marking a successful comeback after his second ACL injury.

Expressing gratitude, McWatt acknowledged his physiotherapy team, his coaches, including Nigel Donohue, British Judo Performance Director, and his support system, from his father’s club to national mentors. He noted, “I want to thank everyone who’s been part of my journey, from my dad and my early coaches to Nigel and the team who have supported me.”

Nigel Donohue lauded McWatt’s resilience and leadership, remarking, “Stuart has shown incredible perseverance. He’s been an asset to British Judo and will continue to be as he transitions into coaching.” Donohue added that British Judo plans to support McWatt’s aspirations to coach, recognizing his potential to inspire future athletes through programs like the UK Sport Apprentice Coach initiative.

As McWatt moves on from competitive judo, he intends to remain active in the judo community, with plans to coach at his home club in Scotland, where his journey first began.