Karate is a global phenomenon recognised and respected across all five continents. The word "karate" is universally known, representing not only a sport but also a cultural force that has influenced society worldwide. The tremendous popularity and global appeal of the sport make Karate’s exclusion from the Olympic Games even more shocking.

From its widespread practice and strong presence in schools to its portrayal in iconic movies, karate has embedded itself into the fabric of cultures worldwide, reaching people of all ages and backgrounds. The popularity of karate is reflected in the reach of the World Karate Federation (WKF), which boasts 200 national federations spanning every continent. This widespread presence underscores karate's status as one of the most recognizable and widely practised sports disciplines in the world.

The report by market-leading firm KPMG highlighted the vast scale of karate's appeal, estimating that over 100 million people worldwide actively practice and support the sport.

Karate's popularity extends beyond just practitioners. The study conducted by Nielsen Sports across 13 key markets found that over 300 million people are interested in karate. The study concluded that these numbers place karate as the most followed martial arts Olympic discipline. Among those interested in Karate, 47% reported watching karate in the past year, further demonstrating its strong presence in the lives of millions.

Gender Parity: A Unique Feature of Karate

One of karate's standout features and key elements for its popularity is its commitment to gender parity. Karate presents nearly equal participation from male and female athletes in major international events. The 2023 WKF World Senior Championships featured 493 male and 428 female competitors, while the 2024 Karate 1-Premier League events, Karate’s first-class series of international competitions, saw 727 men and 736 women competing.

The gender balance extends beyond participation, with equal prize money, the same competition duration, and even the same competition wear for both genders. Karate's dedication to gender equality sets it apart in the world of sports and contributes to its global appeal.

While Karate continues to extend its presence in every corner of the globe, and karate's legacy of respect, values, and cultural significance continues to inspire generations, its exclusion from the Olympic Games programme remains a mystery and one of the greatest contradictions in the global sports ecosystem.

PART 2: Karate: The Most Notable Absence at Paris 2024 Despite Tokyo 2020 Success

PART 1:  Karate: Paris 2024 Greatest Absence