Dutch ju-jitsu star named Athlete of the Month – October 2025
Dutch ju-jitsu athlete Géneviève Bogers, 29, has rounded off a remarkable season with back-to-back podium performances—first earning a bronze medal at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu this August and now reclaiming her world title at the Ju-Jitsu World Championships in November in Bangkok, Thailand. Her consistency and achievements have also earned her the honour of being named The World Games’
Athlete of the Month for October 2025.
For Bogers, the dual triumphs still feel “amazing and unbelievable.”
“My goal this year was to win a medal at The World Games, with gold being the ultimate goal. But I'm really happy with the bronze and how I achieved it! Becoming World Champion again is still surreal. It’s been an incredible year, and I’m eager to collect more medals. But most of all, I want to enjoy the journey.”
Mental strength behind the medals
Behind Bogers’ success lies a strong focus on mental preparation as well as physical readiness.
“Besides being physically fit and ready, my main focus was on the mental side—staying relaxed and focused on doing my job,” she explained.
“Move Sport psychology (where I did my internship and wrote my thesis) has always been a great foundation for me. And I couldn’t do it without the support of my family, friends, boyfriend, teammates, trainers, and sponsors!”
Team pride and national spirit
At the World Championships, Bogers not only defended her individual title but also helped the Dutch fighting team secure bronze in the team event.
“The team competition came after the individual matches. I don’t fight in my own weight class there—it’s either -63 or +63,” she said. “I even faced the Vice World Champion in the +70 kg class and gave everything I had to win for the team—and I did! Unfortunately, we lost in the semifinals, but we were proud to take home the bronze medal together.”
A multi-sport stage like no other
Reflecting on her experience at The World Games in Chengdu, China, Bogers said the event remains one of her favourite sporting stages.
“The World Games are such a unique event! This was my second time competing there, and I love how athletes from different sports come together, cheering for and supporting each other. It’s a truly special atmosphere,” she shared.
“I learned the importance of really enjoying and absorbing every moment.”
Her participation in the European University Games in judo last year also helped her adapt to the atmosphere of a multi-sport event.
“The World Games are held every four years, making it a much bigger event, and only the best athletes from each sport qualify. At the World Championships, there are more athletes in my category, which also makes it challenging to win gold!”
Looking ahead
As Bogers looks toward 2026, her motivation remains stronger than ever.
“Being named Athlete of the Month is a huge honour, and I feel it’s the perfect crown for my amazing season! It definitely motivates me even more to aim for gold at the European Championships next year,” she said.
“I’m excited to see where this journey takes me—and most importantly, I want to continue enjoying every step of the process.”
With her determination, humility, and joy, Géneviève Bogers continues to be one of the most inspiring figures in international ju-jitsu—and a proud ambassador for the Netherlands on the world stage.