The two Japanese siblings are still at the top of their class: Uta and Hifumi Abe won gold at the Antalya Judo Grand Slam.
Welcome to the coast of Antalya, the pearl of the Turkish Riviera. The Antalya Judo Grand Slam begins today, in a country known for its rich history and vibrant culture – and of course its judoka.
She made it straight into the first final of the day, the category up to 48 kilograms Turkin Sila Ersin. There she met them Japanerin Natsumi Tsunoda, who used her two trademark moves: tomoe-nagi for waza-ari and then an armbar to get the win. The Japanese world champion showed all her skills.
Fatih Uysal, Deputy Director General in the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports, presented the medals.
There were in the weight class up to 60 kilos Ayub Bliev, who competes as a country-neutral athlete**,** and the Franzose Luka Mkheidze opposite, in a fight that went all the way to the Golden Score. Bliev managed to overwhelm his opponent and score an ippon. Mohammed Meridja, Director of Education and Coaching at the International Jdu Federation (IJF), presented the medals.
Two gold medals for Japan: Uta and Hifumi Abe
The most dominant fighter in the judo world appeared in the weight class up to 52 kilograms: Uta Abe, undefeated since 2019. Barely 10 seconds – and then it was over. Ippon for Abe and her winning streak continues. The local fans in the stadium were desperate to experience a moment with the legendary judoka. She received her medal from IJF Vice President Laszlo Toth.
“It feels great, I can hear them all and that always makes me a little bit stronger and that’s probably why I won today,” said Uta Abe.
Hifumi Abe took the lead from his sister and also finished his 66kg final in quick fashion by throwing Nurali Emomali on Ippon. The two Japanese siblings remain at the top of their class.
“I’m happy that judo is so popular here and that so many people came to see it. I’m happy that people kept their fingers crossed for me,” said Hifumi Abe and received his gold from Juan Carlos Barcos , IJF coordinator for international referee seminars.
Gold for Christa Deguchi from Canada
The final up to 57 kilos was a purely Pan-American fight. The Canadian Christa Deduchi took the challenge of Jessica Lima from Brazil on, and the Canadian finally used O-uchi-gari to win gold. IJF sports director Michael Tamura presented the medals.
The Turkish spectators saw some wonderful moments from their team today.
Join us tomorrow when we experience more exciting judo action in the heart of Turkish nature.