Judo Gold Rush in Astana: A Glorious Day for Switzerland, France, Italy, and Korea
Day Two Gold Rush: Four Countries Secure Judo Grand Slam Victories in Astana
Welcome back to the thrilling world of judo as we recap Day 2 of the 2025 Judo Grand Slam in Astana, Kazakhstan! This city, brimming with beautiful architecture and passionate judo fans, played host to a day filled with exhilarating judo matches.
Prominent figures at the event included the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and IJF President, Mr. Marius Vizer.
The Middleweight Showdown
In the -73kg final, the stage was set for a thrilling battle between 2023 world champion Nils Stump of Switzerland and Karbek Naguchev of the UAE. Stump, with his signature move, uchi-mata, secured a score in the final seconds and claimed gold. IJF General Treasurer, Mr. Naser AL TAMIMI, presented the medals.
France Takes the -63kg Title
The -63kg category saw Melkia Auchecorne of France clinch a hard-fought victory. She was awarded her medal by IJF Guest, Mr. Elliot MOSHOKE.
Standout Performances in the -70kg and -81kg Categories
At -70kg, Giorgia Stangherlin of Italy defeated Yingying FENG of China in a spectacular showdown, earning her first Grand Slam title. CIFP Secretary General The Honorable Sunil Sabharwal presented the medals.
The -81kg weight category featured a closely contested match between Japanese 2x Olympic champion NAGASE Takanori and Lee Joonhwan. In a surprising twist, LEE emerged victorious, winning gold. IJF Development Commission Member Mr Khaled Barakat IBRAHIM presented the medal.
A Triumph for Local Athletes
Local fans were treated to some incredible performances, with Yesset KUANOV and Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR both securing bronzes for Kazakhstan. The passionate crowd was treated to a mix of brilliant groundwork and eye-catching throws, ensuring there was plenty to celebrate!
Preparing for the Heavyweights
The middleweights have delivered an unforgettable day of judo, and we can't wait to see what the heavyweights have in store for us tomorrow in Astana! Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting event.
Related Topics:
- Wrestling
- Judo
- Martial arts
- Kazakhstan
- Sport
[1] Judo: Golden Glory in Dushanbe: Tajikistan Shines on Day 2[2] Judo: Shining in Dushanbe: History, Heroes and Home Glory[3] Judo: Judo Shines in Dushanbe: History, Heroes and Home Glory[4] Judo: Golden Finishes and Heavyweight Heroes in Dushanbe
In the Ongoing Judo Grand Slam in Astana, sports enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the heavyweight judo matches following the impressive performances of the middleweights. This anticipation is shared by participants from various nations, including Italy, as Giorgia Stangherlin gears up for her heavyweight contest, which is scheduled for 2025 in Astana. Furthermore, Kazakhstan, the host nation, is seeking to replicate the success of local athletes like Yesset KUANOV and Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR in the heavyweight categories.
