The Judo Federation of Azerbaijan had reason to celebrate on the first day of the Baku Grand Slam: Jaschar Najafow won gold, Leila Alijewa silver.

The Judo Grand Slam in Baku is open. Taking part this weekend: 446 judoka from 61 countries. After the welcoming words from the officials, the many judo enthusiasts in the stands were able to celebrate a medal straight away. Leila Aliyeva made it to the final in the weight category up to 48 kilograms, but the judoka from Azerbaijan had to admit defeat to Assunta Scutto from Italy.

Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Mariana Vasileva, honored the winner.

“Winning despite being tired is a great result. It means that I am moving forward. I’m delighted with the gold medal,” said Scutto.

Ramasan Abdulayev and Gamsat Zairbekov shared the victory in the men’s up to 60 kilograms category. Abdulajew prevailed in the final, in which he kept his opponent and friend at bay with a hold. Laszlo Toth, Deputy Chairman of the World Judo Federation, was responsible for the award ceremony

In the weight class up to 52 kilograms there was gold for a representative of the judo country of origin: Kisumu Omori defeated Olympic champion Distria Krasniqi in the final. The Japanese athlete was honored by Vlad Marinescu, Secretary General of the World Judo Federation.

Najafow: To gold in 13 seconds

Jaschar Najafow was roared to victory by his compatriots in Baku. The 24-year-old was up against Takeshi Takeoka in the final of the 66 kilogram weight class. It was all over after just 13 seconds: Najafow put the Japanese fighter on the mat with an uchi-mata, or inner thigh throw.

Najafov received gold from the hands of the Secretary General of the Azerbaijan National Olympic Committee, Azer Aliyev.

“I wanted this medal because I am at home here. I have made it. The people of Azerbaijan are into judo, everyone was watching. Thank you for the support,” said the Grand Slam winner.

Olympic champion Nora Gjakova was the best in the women’s category up to 57 kilograms. Florin Daniel Lascau, referee director of the World Judo Federation, presented her with the precious metal.

One gold and one silver: the host Azerbaijani Judo Federation recorded an impressive result on the first day of competition in Baku. More medals are at stake this Saturday