The final day of the World Judo Masters took place in Jerusalem. And they built directly on the momentum of the two previous days of competition. Hundreds of enthusiastic judo fans filled the Pais Arena to cheer on their hero:in.
In the weight category up to 90 kg, Sanshiro Murao was in brilliant form – two waza-ari scores in the final gave the young Japanese the gold medal.
2022 was a special year for Italy’s Alice Bellandi. She moved up a weight class and took the level up to 78 kg by storm. Another gold medal for the 24-year-old, who was thrilled. “Israel is always amazing, they celebrate with me like they are my parents. It’s really very nice. “
A meteoric rise! Alice Bellandi defeats a who’s who of -78kg to become the Master!
Follow the action at https://t. co/Gupw1ahon6 JudoMasters Judo Jerusalem Israel Sports Olympics RoadToParis2024 Judo OlympicQualifiers pic. twitter.com/YhdwIyFD3r
– Judo (@Judo) December 22, 2022
Friends first, then rivals: In the final up to 78 kg, the two French women Romane Dicko and Coralie Hayme fought for the women’s heavyweight title.
With a skilful sacrifice technique, the reigning world champion Dicko also took gold in Jerusalem.
True Judo values between these 2 friends and rivals – Dicko ends the year concurrent Masters and World Champion!
Follow the action at https://t. co/Gupw1ahon6 JudoMasters Judo Jerusalem Israel Sports Olympics RoadToParis2024 Judo OlympicQualifiers pic. twitter.com/fXKuUGL1R7
– Judo (@Judo) December 22, 2022
In the 100kg category, new star Tatsuru Saitō stormed into the final with some beautiful judo. There he kept Temur Rakhimov at bay to take the Masters heavyweight title.
“My mother takes care of me all the time and supports me a lot,” Saitō explains. “I am so happy and glad, I dedicate the gold medal to her. “
Saito, the newly crowned World Master from Japan, took his team to the top of the medal table! What a triumphant end to the year for Saito and Japan! JudoMasters Judo Jerusalem Israel Sport Olympics RoadToParis2024 Judo OlympicQualifiers pic. twitter.com/pWRQ6QbXqN
– Judo (@Judo) December 22, 2022
Every year when the Judo Masters make a stop in Israel, the passion of the local fans is matched only by the athletes. Today Peter Paltchik was their hero, the great show he delivered brought the arena to a roar several times. And not to forget, of course, the crowd favourite Raz Hershko.