A sporting organization is doubling down on its decision to suspend a Christian athlete for five months after he made the sign of the cross during the 2024 Summer Olympics.
The International Judo Federation (IJF) suspended Nemanja Majdov, 28, over the action, which it said is a violation of its code of conduct, The Christian Post reported.
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The sport’s body’s Disciplinary Commission noted Majdov was charged with “having showed a clear religious sign when entering the field of play and having refused to bow your opponent at the end of the contest.”
Beyond that, he was accused of removing his judogi, or uniform, “in the field of play.”
After the five-month suspension was announced, Majdov took to social media to respond.
According to a Google translation of the statement, which was originally posted in Serbian, he said he cannot participate in camps or tournaments during the duration of the punishment.
“The Lord has given me everything, both for me personally and for my career, and he is No. 1 for me and I am proud of that,” he said. “And that will not change under any condition. Glory to Him and thanks for everything.”
To read the full story, visit our content partners at Faithwire.
Reprinted with permission from Faithwire. Copyright © 2024 The Christian Broadcasting Network Inc. All rights reserved.
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Michael Snyder 
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