Israel’s metropolis Tel Aviv was ready for the last day of the Judo Grand Slam. And the spectators were in for another spectacle.
In the 78 kg weight category, Raz Hershko put on a real show in the preliminary round. Having never won gold on home soil before, today was her day – finally first place. Afterwards, Hershko celebrated together with the upcoming generation of Israeli judoka.
“It’s amazing, I love fighting at home, with all these great spectators, it’s insane,” Hershko rejoiced. “From the beginning to the end they cheer you on, it’s fantastic. “
Raz HERSHKO brings more joy to the home crowd! an incredible end for the host nation! ⁰⁰Judo JudoTelAviv Israel WJT RoadToParis2024 OlympicQualifier pic. twitter.com/pVdEz2B1oa
– Judo (@Judo) February 18, 2023
In the 90 kg category, friends and rivals Beka Gviniashvili and Krisztian Toth faced each other. Gviniashvili eventually won gold – but the mutual respect for each other remained.
In the 78 kg weight category, world champion Alice Bellandi of Italy took gold again – her fourth top finish at the World Judo Tour in just a few months.
In the weight category up to 100 kg it came to the fight between Zelym Kotsoiev and the Grand Slam winner from Paris a fortnight ago, Michael Korrel. The Azerbaijani kept the upper hand in the end.
Zelym KOTSOIEV shocks the Paris Grand slam champion with his unique uchi-mata! Judo JudoTelAviv Israel WJT RoadToParis2024 OlympicQualifier pic. twitter.com/C5257M74Ry
– Judo (@Judo) February 18, 2023
“I love fighting here in Israel,” Kotsoiev declared afterwards. “It’s a great atmosphere with so many kids cheering me on. People here love judo, it’s really invigorating. “
In the over 100kg weight category, Tsetsen-tsengel Odkhuu of Mongolia took gold with a hard-fought victory over Ushangi Kokauri of Azerbaijan – his third Grand Slam success overall.
Waza-ari ➡️! ODKHUU TsetsentsengelJudo JudoTelAviv Israel WJT RoadToParis2024 OlympicQualifier pic. twitter.com/bvFk4eWLQE
– Judo (@Judo) February 18, 2023
The audience enjoyed a memorable day and cheered on their heroes from start to finish. Local hero Peter Paltchik brought the crowd to its feet in a great fight. He did not win a medal, but the 31-year-old embodies energy and enthusiasm for the Israeli sport of judo. Tel Aviv showed its best side.