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Israel rejoices stars: Judo Grand Slam in Tel Aviv.

Just three months after the prestigious Masters tournament, the World Judo Tour returned to Israel. The Shlomo Arena in Tel Aviv was packed with judo-mad fans.

In the 57 kg weight class, Jessica Klimkait finally secured victory over her teammate and rival Christa Deguchi in spectacular fashion.

“I think everyone knows that Christa and I were quite rivals in the run-up to the Tokyo Olympics,” Klimkait said in the interview. “I had never beaten her before. So it wasn’t just about this tournament, it was about the last couple of years. “

“A fantastic feeling “

In the 48kg weight category, France’s Blandine Pont was once again on top of the podium after her victory in Paris a fortnight ago. She won her second Grand Slam gold against Tamar Malca from Israel.

In the 60 kg weight category, Olympic bronze medallist Luka Mkheidze from France defeated Francisco Garrigos from Spain with a fast Kata Guruma – and was happy about his first Grand Slam gold medal ever:

“When I won my match, I turned to the audience and saw that everyone was happy.” This was “a fantastic feeling”, Mkheidze said.

Gold for Margvelashvili

Up to 52kg, European and 2022 World champion Chelsie Giles of Great Britain took gold against Ana Perez Box of Spain.

Georgian Olympic silver medallist Vazha Margvelashvili triumphed in a thrilling final up to 66 kg against Orkhan Safarov of Azerbaijan with a brilliant tomoe nage.

Timna Nelson-Levy sets the mood

The spectators saw terrific performances by the local athlete:s throughout the day. Even if there was no gold medal to cheer for, every time an Israeli athlete fought, the whole arena lit up.

The icing on the cake came from co-favourite Timna Nelson-Levy, who won a bronze medal for the enthusiastic home fans. The second day in Tel Aviv follows on Friday.

By Frank