German Rivalry Reignites as Japan Claims 10 Golds in Baku

The Grand Finale of the 2025 Baku Grand Slam: A Day of Thrills and Triumphs

The final day of the 2025 Baku Grand Slam was nothing short of spectacular, delivering a thrilling conclusion to an already action-packed event. The National Gymnastics Arena in Azerbaijan was packed to the brim with judo enthusiasts, all eagerly awaiting the last day of competition. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the energy of fans cheering on their favorite athletes. This was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of judo’s global reach and its power to unite people from all walks of life. Among the highlights of the day were the inspiring performances by Japan’s judokas, who dominated the podium, securing an impressive 10 gold medals. Meanwhile, the Adaptive Judo for Children Project added a heartwarming touch, showcasing the sport’s inclusivity and universality.

A Day of Stellar Performances: Japan Dominates the Podium

Japan’s judokas were in top form on the final day, claiming victory after victory and cementing their nation’s reputation as a powerhouse in the sport. One of the standout moments was the performance of Olympic silver medalist Murao Sanshiro in the -90kg category. Facing Marcelo Fronckowiak of Brazil, Murao wasted no time in securing his win. With a lightning-fast combination of a score and a pin, he left the crowd in awe. The gold medal was presented to him by IJF President Marius Vizer, a fitting reward for his exceptional skill and precision.

In the -78kg category, Anna Monta Olek of Germany engaged in a fierce battle with her compatriot Alina Boehm. The match was a nail-biter, with both athletes showcasing their technical prowess. However, it was Olek who emerged victorious, thanks to a clever foot sweep in the golden score. The victory was met with thunderous applause, and the medals were presented by Harvest Group CEO Almaz Alsenov. Meanwhile, in the -100kg category, Arai Dota stunned everyone with a lightning-fast win. He defeated Leonardo Goncalves of Brazil in just 7 seconds, executing a perfectly timed foot sweep in the very first exchange of the fight. This marked Arai’s first Grand Slam gold medal, awarded by Dr. Zsolt Szövérfi, a member of the IJF Medical Commission.

Japan’s Gold Rush Continues: Takahashi and Ota Shine Bright

Japan’s success on the mat continued with Ruri Takahashi’s impressive victory in the +78kg category. Facing Hilal Ozturk, Takahashi demonstrated her mastery of transitions, seamlessly moving from a throw to groundwork to secure the win. This was her first Grand Slam gold medal, and it was presented by Mehmet Yılmaz, the Turkish Judo Federation Vice President. Meanwhile, in the +100kg category, Ota Hyoga delivered another golden moment for Japan. He faced a tough opponent in Tamerlan Bashaev, but Hyoga’s strategic counterattack earned him the decisive score. The match ended with a touching moment of respect between the two judokas, embodying the spirit of judo. The medals were presented by Sergey Soloveyichik, President of the Russian Judo Federation.

A Celebration of Judo’s Universality

Beyond the thrilling competitions, the 2025 Baku Grand Slam also highlighted the sport’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. The Adaptive Judo for Children Project took center stage, giving young aspiring judokas the opportunity to step onto the tatami of a Grand Slam event. This initiative celebrated the true universality of judo, showcasing how the sport can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of ability. The event served as a powerful reminder of judo’s ability to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes.

A Grand Slam for the Ages: Azerbaijan Shines on the World Stage

As the 2025 Baku Grand Slam came to a close, Azerbaijan once again proved itself to be an outstanding host. The National Gymnastics Arena was not only a venue but a hub of excitement, passion, and respect for the sport. The event was a testament to Azerbaijan’s growing reputation as a key player in the IJF World Judo Tour. Fans from around the globe were treated to world-class performances, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of judo’s values. As the final medals were awarded and the athletes bowed to the crowd, there was a sense of gratitude and camaraderie that defined the true spirit of this incredible event. Azerbaijan, you’ve done it again. Thank you for an unforgettable Grand Slam!