MOSCOW, August 25./ITAR-TASS/. President Vladimir Putin has sent a message of greeting to participants and guests of the Judo World Championship which is being held in Russian Ural city of Chelyabinsk on Monday, the Kremlin website reported.

“Russia deserved to hold so prestigious and authoritative competition,” the head of state said in his greetings, adding that “Our country always had a high interest in this spectacular and dynamic kind of sport, its unique history and philosophy.”

“We are proud of a galaxy of talented wrestlers - Olympic champions, winners of world and European tournaments. Certainly, this championship will become one more significant landmark in the history of domestic judo and will promote popularisation of martial arts and values of healthy and active lifestyle.”

Putin said with confidence that wrestlers would show a perfect physical and wrestling technique training, a fair and uncompromising fight and spectators will have best and bright impressions.

The president wished luck and successes to athletes.

As many as 639 wrestlers from 110 countries will compete for 16 sets of medals at the Judo World Championship in the city of Chelyabinsk. Russian national team comprises 32 judoists.