Rising Stars Shine at Judo Grand Prix Zagreb 2024

Zagreb, the heart of Croatia, transformed into a stage for the Judo Grand Prix this Friday, showcasing the strength and spirit of athletes from around the globe.

Croatian judoka were honoured for their achievements with a special distinction for their first judo Olympic Champion Barbara Matic. Awarding were Dr. Sanda Corak, President of the Croatian Judo Federation and Nikolina Klaic, Representative of the Croatian Lottery.

In -48kg, Koga Wakana of Japan took home the gold medal after defeating Tynbayeva of Kazakhstan. An ouchi-gari scored her waza-ari followed up by a transition into a hold down for waza-ari-awasete-ippon.

IJF Head Referee Director Mr Armen Bagdasarov awarded the medals.

At -60kg, Sherzod Davlatov achieved a remarkable milestone by securing his first Grand Prix gold. Using impressive ashi-waza, he skilfully scored and set up a hold down for waza-ari-awasete-ippon. A huge victory for the Kazakh athlete.

Awarding the medals was IJF Education & Coaching Director Mr Mohammed Meridja.

“The organisation here in Croatia is very good, I’d like to say thank you Zagreb,“ said Davlatov.

Top seed in the -52kg category, Japan’s Kisumi Omori, demonstrated her exceptional skill by earning her third World Judo Tour gold medal. Her victory was secured with a masterful hold down.

IJF Head Sport Director Mr Vladimir Barta was on hand to award the medals.

At -66kg, Zhanarys Rakhmetkali claimed his first Grand Prix gold medal. A huge sode-tsurikomi-goshi scored him ippon to win the final.

Head Referee Director of the International Judo Federation, Mr Florin Daniel Lascau awarded the medals.

Adding another medal to her collection after a close contest was France’s Faiza Mokdar at -57 kg, scoring a waza-ari in golden score, alongside her Paris Grand Slam gold from February.

“The organisation is very good here, everything is good. My partner was very motivated because it’s her place," said Mokdar.

Olympic Champion, Double World Champion & European Champion, Barbara Matic awarded the medals.

It was an impressive day for the Croatian team here in Zagreb, with lots of young judoka showcasing their talents and earning the admiration and respect of the fans.

Zagreb has been the perfect backdrop for today's fierce competition, and there will be more to come tomorrow.