Hungary's judo team wants gold medals at the Olympics. You don't have to see it to believe it. You just have to listen.
The grunts, puffs and heaves spill into the streets around the training center in Budapest. The team hasn't had much to shout about over the last few years, but these athletes are determined to 'pump up the volume' in Paris.
Hungary sent a team of seven judokas to this year's Games. The standout performer is Krisztian Toth, who won bronze at Tokyo 2020. "I'm very tired, of course, but we're on the right path," says Toth. "We're doing everything possible to be in great shape for the Games. Overall, I'm feeling very positive."
Krisztian Toth (blue clothes) is aiming for Hungary's first gold in an Olympic judo event since 1992. /CGTN Europe
The 30-year-old is looking to become the first Hungarian to win two judo medals at the Olympics. He says he won't be happy with anything short of gold. "I'm determined to return from Paris as an Olympic champion. It's a huge dream. I've set high standards for myself, but I'm determined to achieve them."
Hungary has won 10 Olympic medals in judo, but it's only secured one gold. Toth's coach, Gabor Panczel, says he has a good chance of adding to that tally. But there's plenty of pressure, because a poor performance could prove costly.
"Every Olympics is crucial for the Hungarian Judo Association," says Panczel. "We face economic challenges, and sports that don't make profits tend to struggle. This Olympics is a double test for us as our future depends on our performance."
"I feel incredibly fortunate," says Toth. "My Olympic medals have opened many doors for me. I'm excited to see what the future holds."
Subscribe to Storyboard: A weekly newsletter bringing you the best of CGTN every Friday