THE ROLE OF JUDONO IN THE SYSTEM OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS IN UZBEKISTAN

Judo has contributed significantly to the development of Uzbekistan's physical education and sports systems since its formal introduction in 1972. Despite its extensive history, a thorough examination of its evolution, major players, and competitive achievements is still restricted. This study fills that vacuum by looking at the historical progression, structural development, and performance of Uzbek judokas on international stages.  The study takes a qualitative approach, using historical document analysis and statistical evaluations of Uzbekistan's judo performance from 2008 to 2024. Data from national archives, sports federations, and competition records were meticulously examined. 
 
The findings emphasize the critical contribution of early pioneers, particularly V.A. Kim and A.A. Istomin, in developing a national judo framework. The report demonstrates Uzbek judokas' rising success in international competitions, with 408 medals gained at major tournaments such as the Olympics, World Championships, and Grand Prix events. The establishment of specialized training centers and rigorous coaching tactics has helped Uzbekistan maintain its competitive judo presence.  The findings highlight the value of structured training programs and government backing in developing elite athletes. The conclusions show that further investment in grassroots development and international collaborations can help Uzbekistan improve its standing in global judo. This study lays the groundwork for future research into sports policy and athlete development in post-Soviet countries.