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Serbian Judo World Champion Nemanja Majdov Has Been Banned Five Months For Making ‘Sign Of The Cross’ Gesture At Paris Olympics

World champion judo wrestler Nemanja Majdov has come forth to announce that he has been banned for five months after making the 'sign of the cross' ahead of his competition at the Paris Olympics.

The 28-year-old has vowed he will not back down, nor apologize, after being accused for a third time (previously April 2018 and February 2022) of violating the International Judo Federation's religious code, which prohibits "clear religious signs entering the field of play."

"True, in the defense letter of the disciplinary proceedings I did not want to apologize," Majdov said. "And of course I did not, nor will I ever, although I did not even know what the punishment could be."

As a result, Majdov has been barred from participating in "all tournaments, camps and preparations," according to the New York Post. This is big news considering he was the third ranked judoist (-90 kg weight class).

In view of the sign Serbian Majdov made ahead of his Round of 16 match on July 31 vs. Greece's Theodoros Tselidis, he touched his forehead, chest, and then both shoulders, which is a Christian gesture representing "God the Father, Son (Jesus), and Holy Spirit."

Nemanja Majdov (Serbia; white) and Greece's Theodoros Tselidis (Greece; Blue)

Majdov broke the news on his Instagram.

"15 days ago I received a decision that I was suspended for 5 months by the World Judo Federation (IJF) for violating their religious codes. More precisely, because of [making a sign of the cross] when entering a match at the Olympic Games."

No matter what punishment is handed down, the 2017 world champion and 2023 European champion will stand up for his faith and ultimately has no regrets, as honoring God is his No. 1 priority.

"The Lord has given me everything, both for me personally and for my career, and he is number 1 for me and I am proud of that. And that will not change under any circumstances. Glory to Him and thanks for everything."

"Nothing new for me personally, just a new page in my career and a new life experience," Majdov continued, while insinuating that he is ready to leave it all behind. "I'm sorry that such a beautiful and difficult sport like judo has fallen to such things."

"God gave me a great career, 7 European and 3 world medals. When I started, I dreamed of winning at least one big medal and thus succeeding in my life and the life of my family, who sacrificed everything for my career. He gave us a lot more, and even borrowed too much, so that I would bow my head in front of them when it came either-or."

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