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World Judo Championships in Qatar: Historic medal for the German team

The Judo World Championship in Qatar is entering its fifth day. And from Germany’s point of view, it had a surprise in store.

At the Judo World Championships in Doha, Qatar, Saki Niizoe from Japan reached the final in the women’s 70 kg category. And her opponent was none other than the European silver medallist of 2017, Giovanna Scoccimarro. The German judoka was already in top form throughout the preliminary round.

But in the fight for gold, Niizoe’s vast experience made itself felt as she threw a waza-ari to secure the World Championship title. Afterwards, she was overwhelmed by her emotions: “I am so happy and I shed tears of joy. “

Georgian final in the men’s singles
Lasha Bekauri of Georgia was looking to add the world title to his Tokyo 2021 Olympic win and entered the 90kg final with great judo passion.

There he faced his teammate Luka Maisuradze, who had been decorated with two bronze medals so far and naturally wanted to improve on that.

In this all-Georgian final, Maisuradze eventually emerged victorious. The new world champion and Bekauri are undoubtedly the kings of this weight class.

“When I heard that my name was announced as the world champion, I needed some time to process it and realise what happened here,” Maisuradze said later. Doha was a fantastic place, these feelings “I will never forget”.

The competition continues on Friday, when the world champions up to 100 kg and 78 kg will be sought.

By Frank