Ebinuma faced several challenges early on. In 2012, he fractured the xiphoid process on his sternum, which hindered his training for a month. Despite this setback, he continued to compete at high levels. In 2013, during the World Championships final in Rio de Janeiro, he sustained an injury but refused to submit, ultimately winning gold.

In 2015, Ebinuma injured his left shoulder. These injuries did not deter him from pursuing his passion for judo. His resilience and determination have been evident throughout his career.

Achievements and Awards

Ebinuma's achievements are numerous. In 2013, he received an Excellence Award at the Japanese Olympic Committee Sports Awards. The same year, he was honoured with the Best Athlete Award at the Japan Sports Award. In 2014, he won the Big Sports Award at the Asahi TV Big Sports Award ceremony.

His accolades also include the Tokyo-To Citizen Sports Grand Prize in 2012. These awards highlight his exceptional skills and contributions to judo.

Family and Personal Life

Ebinuma is married to Kana Abe, who also represented Japan in judo at the World Championships in 2011 and 2013. She won gold in the women's team event in 2013. The couple has two children: a daughter named Kanon born in 2017 and a son born in 2020.

Ebinuma's brother Satoru has also had a successful judo career, winning bronze at the 2002 World Junior Championships. Satoru now serves as head coach of the men's judo team at Park 24 club.

Weight Class Change

After winning bronze medals in the -66kg weight class at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, Ebinuma decided to move up to the -73kg category in 2017. He made his international debut in this new weight class in 2018. Ebinuma expressed feeling more relaxed competing in this category as it allowed him more room for growth.

Coaching and Other Roles

Ebinuma is not only an athlete but also a coach. He works alongside his brother Satoru at Park 24 club and with Kosei Inoue at the national level. His coaching roles demonstrate his commitment to nurturing new talent in judo.

In addition to his coaching duties, Ebinuma was appointed a member of the athletes' commission of the International Judo Federation (IJF) in 2017. This role allows him to contribute to the development of judo on a global scale.

Philosophy and Future Plans

Ebinuma lives by the motto "Effort is always rewarded." This philosophy has guided him through his career's highs and lows. His dedication to judo remains unwavering as he continues to inspire upcoming athletes.

Looking ahead, Ebinuma plans to further his involvement in judo both as an athlete and coach. His journey from a young judoka inspired by his brother to an accomplished athlete and mentor is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport.