the third and final day of the Antalya Grand Slam found its crowning glory in a stadium full of enthusiastic judo fans.
In the under 90kg category, Cuban silver medalist Ivan Felipe Silva Morales overcame young Georgian Luka Maisuradze in an extremely close exchange. Morales deservedly won and brought home his first Grand Slam gold medal. The medals were presented to him by IJF Vice-President and African Judo Union President Siteny Randrian Asoloniaiko.
After an incredibly hard fight over 10 minutes in the final up to 78 kilos, world champion Anna Maria Wagner dug deep into her bag of tricks to pull off an Ura Nage, a highlight of the tournament. In the end, the sportsmanship of the winner and the second-placed Dutchman Guusje Steenhuis won. A powerful counterattack from the Olympic bronze medalist – judo at its finest. Anna Maria Wagner received her medal from IJF Treasurer General Naser Al Tamimi.
The final up to 100 kilos was the fight everyone had been waiting for – two world champions competed for gold. Reigning world champion Jorge Fonseca proved once again that the 100 kilo class is still a special one. And once again Fonseca showed that he is a special judo personality. He received his medal from IJF Event Director Dr. Lisa Alan.
In the 78 kilo class, Lea Fontaine prevailed against Raz Hershko from Israel – and took gold for France. The medals were presented by IJF Referee Florin Daniel Lascau.
Guram Tushishvili of Georgia won his fourth Grand Slam title in the 100+ kilograms category. He showed incredible staying power from behind, a true – albeit former – world champion. The medals were awarded by IJF Referee Armen Bagdasarov
The Turkish team – a mix of young and experienced athletes – showed unity. They showed their strengths in all technical aspects, be it in foot or throwing technique and handles. Judo’s popularity is growing in Turkey, and the Antalya Grand Slam may have played its part. The international judo community is already looking forward to 2023 – and the return to Antalya.
