Princess Tomohito of Mikasa has been appointed as an International Judo Federation ambassador by its President Marius Vizer ©IJF

Japan's Princess Tomohito of Mikasa has been appointed as an ambassador of the International Judo Federation (IJF). 

Princess Tomohito received a special certificate from IJF President Marius Vizer to mark her appointment during the world governing body's Gala Dinner held on the eve of the World Championships, due to start in the Japanese capital tomorrow.

The 64-year-old Princess is the widow of Prince Tomohito of Mikasa, who died in 2012 and was formerly sixth in the line of succession to the Japanese throne.

Italian singer Al Bano is among several IJF ambassadors appointed by its President Marius Vizer ©IJF
Italian singer Al Bano is among several IJF ambassadors appointed by its President Marius Vizer ©IJF

Princess Tomohito is expected to attend the IJF World Championships, scheduled to last until September 1, at the Nippon Budokan and present medals.

She joins an eclectic group of IJF ambassadors, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, appointed IJF Honorary President by Vizer.

Other IJF ambassadors include Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates head of state for national security advisor, Italian singer Al Bano and Romania's five-time Olympic gold medalist gymnast Nadia Comăneci.