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Atmospheric start: Fans celebrate the Judo Grand Slam in Jerusalem

The judo family returned to Israel for their biggest event yet with the World Judo Masters. And the locals were thrilled.

IJF President Marius Vizer opened the tournament together with Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion as well as Moshe Ponti, President of the Israel Judo Federation.

Both witnessed Frenchwoman Shirine Boukli win her biggest title yet with a clever sacrifice technique before taking time to take a selfie with the judo fans.

Jerusalem is a historic place says Boukli. “A hell of a crowd with kids, passionate judo fans, it’s so good.”

In the 60kg weight category, Korea’s Lee Harim shocked world champion Nagayama to stand atop the podium.

The Olympic champion in the up to 48 kg category, Distria Krasniqi, from Kosovo, defeated world champion Chelsie Giles in the up to 52 kg category. She won with a lightning-fast Ōuchi gari, securing her fourth championship title overall.

Fan favourite Christa Deguchi of Canada finished the year with incredible sacrificial techniques. The 2019 world champion ends the year as the world champion of the bie 57kg class.

The hosts’ hopes for gold today rested on the strong shoulders of Baruch Shmailov, who put on his usual explosive judo display throughout the day with some tremendous techniques.

He met the surprise French package Bouba in the final – but for the home fans there was no alternative but gold for Israel – and the “Pais Arena” in Jerusalem erupted in jubilation as their hero became world champion in the 66 kg category. Baruch Shmailov, the hero they had all come for, fulfilled his mission.

“When I see people who are close to me, I just want to jump up and hug everyone,” said Shmailov. “Such a great moment, I’m so happy. “

Both the women’s and men’s teams gave local fans plenty to cheer about throughout the day. An incredible first day in the historic city of Jerusalem.

By Julian