The United Arab Emirates wins a historic gold on the first day of the Judo Grand Slam in Abu Dhabi
After the success of World Championships at the beginning of the yearthe World Judo Tour returns to stop at Abu Dhabi for the first Grand Slam after the Paris Olympics. The city, surprising and modern, therefore once again welcomes the best judokas in the world, to the delight of the public who flocked to the Mubadala Arena to admire them.
Among female athletes, she was Sabina GILIAZOVA to win gold in the lightest weights (-48 kg). A precise sumi-gaeshi arriving in the final seconds left Andrea Stojadinov no chance of reply. IJF President Marius VIZER presented her with the medal.
Iznaur SAAEV he faced the Frenchman Cedric REVOL in the -60 kg, clinching the victory with a waza-ari which reached the golden score after a close battle. Balazs FÜRJES, IOC member representing Hungary, presented the medals.
Khorloodoi BISHRELT of the United Arab Emirates took home the gold for the host nation in the -52 kg. A historic moment for the Emirati women’s team, which Bishrelt celebrated with great enthusiasm. Mohammed Bin Tha’aloob Al DERIE, President of the UAE Judo Federation, presented her with the gold. “It was very hard – commented the Emirati athlete – but I wanted this medal. Many people supported me, this competition was really important for me.”
Murad CHOPANOV he showed himself in excellent form in the -66 kg. In a thrilling final, he imposed first a waza-ari on the Frenchman Daiki BOUBA, then the decisive ippon. The CEO of Icona Capital, Max-Hervé GEORGE, presented the medals. “A big thank you to Abu Dhabi. I have many friends here who compete and represent the UAE team. I wish them good luck and making their team proud. Now I will celebrate my success and relax,” said Chopanov after the race.
Nei -57 kg, Seija BALLHAUS he prevailed in the final thanks to an excellent waza-ari. The medals were presented by Rene Phasel, president emeritus of the International Ice Hockey Federation.
Just seven seconds into the day, the UAE team achieved their first ippon of the tournament. A perfect start, waiting for the second day of the Grand Slam.
