The second day of the 2025 Baku Grand Slam saw thrilling judo action. Home hero Zelim Tckaev secured Azerbaijan’s first gold, electrifying the crowd. Jessica Klimkait and Szofi Ozbas claimed gold in their new weight classes, while Ishihara Tatsuki impressed at -73kg.
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The second day of the 2025 Baku Grand Slam here in Azerbaijan saw a massive turnout at the National Gymnastics Arena.
Mr Marius Vizer, President of the IJF and Azerbaijan Judo Federation President, Mr Rashad NABIYEV officially opened the event.
Local Olympic Champions Hidayat Heydarov and Zelyn Kotsoiev were in attendance, and everyone here was on the edge of their seats all day for an exciting days judo
Jessica KLIMKAIT made it to the -63kg final, in her first tournament up a weight from -57kg.
In the final she faced Minami AONO and won a tactical battle, much to the delight of the home crowd who were cheering her on. We asked Jessica about this international support.
Azerbaijan NOC Vice President, Mr Chingiz HUSEYNZADE, awarded her with the gold medal.
ISHIHARA Tatsuki took the gold medal at -73kg, putting on a stellar performance all day. The current world silver medallist showed his class, taking on all comers with his exciting brand of judo.
Azerbaijan NOC Secretary General, Mr Azer ALIYEV, awarded the medals.
Szofi OZBAS, also fighting in a new weight category defeated Serafima MOSCALU with two waza-ari’s scored, to claim a first ever career grand slam gold medal at her first tournament in the -70kg category.
The crowd showed great respect cheering her as she left the tatami.
Dr Laszlo TOTH, IJF Vice President, awarded the gold.
Home favourite Zelim TCKAEV was the hero today! Defeating Canada’s François GAUTHIER DRAPEAU he gave the fans what they were waiting for in the -81 kg final.
A yuko score won Azerbaijan their first gold medal of the tournament and the public were elated.
Tckaev was delighted to give them something incredible to cheer for.
Azerbaijan Judo Federation President, Mr Rashad NABIYEV was on hand to award the medals.
Throughout the day, the ever-improving Azerbaijan team were on fire, displaying great heart and skillful judo!
Paving the way for the next generation of judoka here in Baku.
See you tomorrow for the finale of this amazing showpiece event!