Scvortov’s shift from contender to coach keeps UAE judo climbing

Victor Scvortov’s career is defined by change—first as a world-class competitor, then as a builder behind the scenes. Born in Moldova, he made his name on the international circuit before stepping into a new role with the United Arab Emirates. Now 38, his impact is felt less through his own contests and more through the athletes he’s shaping.

In 2013, Scvortov switched to represent the UAE, joining an ambitious plan to create a truly competitive national programme. The results came fast. At the 2014 World Championships in Chelyabinsk, he won bronze, becoming the first judoka representing the UAE to stand on a world podium. For a developing team, that kind of moment changes what people believe is possible.

That breakthrough season didn’t stop there. Scvortov also took Grand Prix gold in Abu Dhabi and Budapest in 2014, underlining his place among the U73kg contenders. For European fans, Budapest remains a key stop on his story—one of the wins that proved his level against top opposition.

He stayed relevant for years, picking up Grand Prix silver in The Hague in 2017 and adding medals later in Tashkent (2018) and at the Asian Pacific Championships in Fujairah (2019). His final stretch included Grand Prix silver in Montreal and bronze at the 2021 Grand Slam in Kazan, before he retired from competition that same year.

One medal can open a door; Scvortov’s did that for an entire programme.

Scvortov’s resume also reflects the era he fought in, with meetings against names like Rustam Orujov, Lasha Shavdatuashvili and Miklós Ungvári, and an undefeated record against Odbayar Ganbaatar. Since 2021, he has moved into coaching and became head coach within the UAE setup.

The programme’s recent results show the direction: Makhmadbek Makhmadbekov rose to world ranking leader and claimed bronze at the 2025 World Championships, while Dzhafar Kostoev captured Grand Slam gold in Paris in 2025. Makhmadbekov followed with his own Paris victory in 2026, and on the women’s side Khorloodoi Bishrelt won gold at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam. Scvortov’s story continues—now through the next generation.

Source: JudoInside