The Japanese judokas won all seven gold medals on the first day of the Tokyo Grand Slam, which will conclude the 2024 World Judo Tour.
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Tokyo, the spiritual home of judo, welcomed the final Grand Slam of the International Judo Federation’s (IJF) 2024 World Judo Tour.
At -48kg Koga Wakana faced Kondo Mitsuki. Koga, taking away a narrow victory, scored a waza-ari in golden score.
Mr. Marius VIZER, IJF President, was on hand to award the medals.
At -60kg last year’s winner Nagayama Ryuju took on Taiki Nakamura. Nakamura out-attacked his more experienced compatriot to take the gold by shido.
He was awarded his medal by Mr. Shinichi Nakamura, All Japan Judo Federation President.
At -52kg a moment of brilliance from Kisumi Omori saw her take the title.
Mr Haruki Uemura, Kodokan President, awarded the gold.
In the -66kg category, Takeoka Takeshi faced Taikoh Fujisaka and claimed the gold in style!
The medals were awarded by Mr. Obaid Al Anzi, IJF Vice President.
At -57kg, two Japanese youngsters Megumi Fuchida and Mika Adachi faced off in the final. A close contest was settled by a waza-ari for Adachi.
She was awarded the gold medal by Mr. Armen Bagdasarov, IJF Head Referee Director.
At -73kg young gun Ryuga Tanaka powered his way to gold.
He was awarded his medal by Mr. Mohammed Meridja, IJF Education & Coaching Director.
At -63kg Haruka Kaju overcame Megu Danno on penalties.
She was awarded the gold medal by Mr. Zhou Jinqiang, Vice President of the Chinese Olympic Committee.
Japan has a day to remember, 7 out of 7 golds, and some breathtaking judo from their all-star team!
Tokyo is set to wrap up the 2024 judo calendar in style tomorrow.