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Judo Grand Slam in Antalya: World class on the Mediterranean Sea

Some of the best judoka in the world were on the mat at the Grand Slam in Antalya. Among other things, it came to clash of world champions.

Turkish youth at the Antalya Spor Salonu event hall went wild as some of the world’s best judoka once again faced off on the second day of competition at the Grand Slam in the city on the Mediterranean coast.

Quadros: Still top at 35

In the women’s up to 63 kilograms, Ketleyn Quadros has been world class for 15 years. The Brazilian received an ippon score in the final just before the end and won gold. The 35-year-old was delighted.

The chairman of the Israeli Judo Federation Moshe Ponte handed over the medals.

Lombardo cheers

In the men’s up to 73 kilograms, Italy’s Manuel Lombardo was not stopped even by the world champion. He defeated Tsogtbaatar Tsend-Ochir and took the tournament victory. Mohammed Meridja, responsible for educational matters at the World Federation, performed the award ceremony.

Niizoe vs. Matic: advantage Japan

In the weight category up to 70 kilograms, Barbara Matic, a world champion, was also in the final, but she also had to settle for second place. Saki Niizoe was stronger than the Croatian. The Japanese won a world tour tournament for the eighth time. Vladimir Barta, the sports director of the world federation, handed her the precious metal.

“Barbara Matic is a very good opponent, it was a close fight. I was very happy to be able to compete against her,” said the winner.

Casse: winner in world class fight

Matthias Casse of Belgium and Saeid Mollaei of Azerbaijan are among the world’s best in the 81 kilogram weight class. But in Antalya there was only one gold medal to be awarded: Belgian Casse snatched. The two fighters showed great sportsmanship. The general director of the world federation, Vlad Marinescu, was responsible for the honors.

“The defeat in Paris has benefited me a lot. I’ll definitely take the experience with me to the World Cup. It was good to lose once and then come back stronger,” said Casse.

There was a great atmosphere in the stands in Antalya, not least thanks to the many young judo enthusiasts. This Sunday, the heavyweights get into the action.

By Arnold