TAMPA, Fla.- Rhadi Ferguson Jr., a freshman at Sickles High School in Tampa, delivered a commanding performance at the 2025 USA Judo Youth National Championships in Salt Lake City, Utah, winning three national titles in a single weekend. Her achievement establishes her as one of the nation’s leading young judo athletes.
The daughter of 2004 Olympian Dr. Rhadi Ferguson, Rhadi Jr. trains at Tampa Florida Judo, a local program known for producing elite athletes in both judo and collegiate wrestling. The club is led by Head Coach Dr. Rhadi Ferguson, a former Division I wrestler, Olympian, and respected national coach who has mentored numerous athletes toward success.
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At the national championships, Ferguson Jr. achieved a perfect 9-0 record, securing gold medals in the Cadet (U18) +70kg, IJF-Junior (U21) +78kg, and IJF-Junior Open divisions.
Notably, she won the tournament without allowing a single point to be scored against her, a rare accomplishment at the national level. Her victories included a decisive win over a current Cadet World Team member. These wins earned her coveted spots on Team USA’s Cadet and Junior Pan American Championship rosters.
At just 15 years old, Ferguson Jr. has garnered attention not only as a national judo champion but also from top wrestling programs and coaches across the country. Her combined judo skills and wrestling potential position her as a highly sought-after young combat athlete and a promising Olympic contender for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
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“Rhadi Jr. is a competitor unlike any I’ve seen at her age,” said Dr. Ferguson. “She trains with intention, fights with heart, and has the mindset of a champion. Tampa Florida Judo is proud to be her home.”
Ferguson Jr.’s next challenge is the High School National Wrestling Championships, where she aims to continue her winning streak.
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