Experience the excitement of the Judo Grand Slam as it wraps up in Tajikistan, showcasing world-class talent and thrilling matches.
The city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan, witnessed a spectacular conclusion to the Judo Grand Slam as the heavyweights of the sport took center stage, showcasing their prowess on the tatami. The event was marked by intense competition and unforgettable moments of athletic excellence.
At the -90kg category, Eljan HAJIYEV clashed with Vugar TALIBOV. The two Azerbaijani judokas delivered an intense battle, with HAJIYEV ultimately triumphing with a decisive ippon to claim his first Grand Slam gold. The medals were presented by the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Tajikistan, His Excellency Mr. Alimirzamin ASKEROV.
In the -78kg category, Emma REID faced off against Yuxiao PENG. The British judoka showcased her agility and speed, countering Peng’s attack with a stunning ippon, earning her the coveted Dushanbe gold medal. Ms. Tina TRSTENJAK, IJF Refereeing Supervisor, awarded the medals.
“I feel like they just love judo so they obviously support Tajikistan players, but they’re just such a good crowd. I always love fighting here,” expressed Emma REID.
In the -100kg category, Dzhafar KOSTOEV went head-to-head with Dzhakhongir MADZHIDOV. KOSTOEV executed an unusual ura-nage, securing an ippon and his second Grand Slam gold medal of the year. The medals were awarded by Mr. Armen BAGDASAROV, IJF Head Referee Director.
The +78kg division saw Chundi JIA competing against Ye LIANG. The Chinese teammates displayed commendable skill, but JIA emerged victorious by holding LIANG down for 20 seconds, clinching her first Grand Slam gold. Mr. Ergash MAKHMADBEKOV, Vice President of the Tajikistan Judo Federation, awarded the medals.
In the +100kg category, Temur RAKHIMOV battled Dzhamal GAMZATKHANOV. The match extended into a dramatic golden score, where RAKHIMOV swiftly countered his opponent, winning with a powerful ippon. The home crowd erupted in cheers as the Tajik judoka claimed gold on home soil. Mr. Ismoil MAHMADZOIR, President of the Tajikistan Judo Federation, awarded the medals.
“Judo is the number one sport in Tajikistan, and I was able to win this gold medal because of the President, the President of the Judo Federation, and all of the support that the public has given me,” shared Temur RAKHIMOV.
The event concluded with resounding applause from the audience, as Tajikistan’s judokas delivered breathtaking performances, leaving a lasting impact on the global judo community. The three days of elite competition in Tajikistan will be remembered for the exceptional display of skill and sportsmanship.
Yorum Yap