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Welcome to the third day of the OTP Bank World Judo Championships in Budapest!
In the -57 kg category, World bronze and silver medallist Momo TAMAOKI was here to clinch the long-awaited World title. She successfully advanced through the preliminaries and secured her spot in the final for the second time.
There, she faced Georgia’s Eteri LIPARTELIANI, a rising star who reached her first World final after an impressive day of judo. She captivated the audience with her bold techniques and fearless approach. With the momentum in her favor and the World title inches away, she stepped onto the tatami ready to go for the gold.
In the final, it was LIPARTELIANI who shone, dominating the match from the start. With two significant waza-ari scores, she left no doubt as to who deserved the victory, earning herself the prestigious red backpatch. In front of the cheering crowd in Budapest, she delivered the performance of a lifetime and made history as Georgia’s first-ever female World Champion. A triumphant moment for her and her nation.
Mrs Kolinda GRABAR-KITAROVIC, Former President of Croatia & IOC Member, presented the medals.
In the -73 kg category, Joan-Benjamin GABA was on the best run of his career, scoring ippon in every match leading up to the final. The Frenchman fought with an undeterred commitment, determined to seize his moment. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, GABA was focused on one objective – to walk away with the world title.
In the final, he faced Daniel CARGNIN, who aimed to upgrade his previous bronze to gold. Could the Brazilian secure the top spot?
With the pressure on and the score tied, the first point would decide the title. A waza-ari from GABA was all it took to secure his place at the top of the podium. A moment of triumph that capped off a lifetime achievement. A fearless ascent to the pinnacle.
Mr Mustapha BERRAF, ANOCA President & IOC Member, awarded the medals.
From stunning Budapest, that’s all for Day 3.
