TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japanese judoka Tatsuru Saito, who underwent neck surgery in late October, said Sunday he will try to return to the mat at the national weight-class championships in November 2025.

At the Paris Olympics, the 22-year-old lost his bronze medal contest in the men's over-100-kilogram category, in which host country favorite Teddy Riner won gold.

Saito also contested the mixed team event, losing to Riner in a decisive seventh match of the final against France.

"I'll strengthen weak muscles in addition to the neck and rebuild my foundation for fighting," said the son of two-time Olympic judo heavyweight champion Hitoshi Saito, who died of cancer in January 2015 at the age of 54.

Saito said his doctor warned him that he would have to undergo surgery or retire after being diagnosed with a herniated cervical vertebrae and spinal canal stenosis.

He is rehabilitating at the Japan Institute of Sports Sciences.

Looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Saito said, "I can't finish my career like this. I'll continue to fight for my pride."