In the next round, it was Aleksandra Kan (TJK), who, despite the cheers of the crowd, could do nothing against the storming Cysique. An initial waza-ari from a counter-attack, followed by a ground hold, sealed Kan's fate. Finally, in the semi-finals, Cysique defeated Pihla Salonen (FIN), who’d had a flawless run until then.
Uncertainty hung over Cysique's opponent in the final. Ultimately, it was outsider Natalia Elkina (IJF) who ruled the roost, eliminating all of her opponents in the first part of the day.
When it's done at this level, it looks so easy… this is the feeling we had while watching Cysique turning over Natalia Elkina to pin her down for ippon. It looks easy because there are hours of work behind it! Today was a good test for the French judoka who wins her second grand slam gold medal here.
The first bronze medal contest saw Ana Viktorija Puljiz (CRO) and Maysa Pardayeva (TKM) face off. A golden score period was necessary to designate the winner. It took a bit of time, but the conclusion was beautiful with a combination of changes in direction for ippon. Medal number three for Viktorija Puljiz in a grand slam was secured.
Yuying Tao (CHN) and Pihla Salonen (FIN) gave themselves a chance to reach the podium. After 1 minute and 15 seconds of golden score, the contest that had been undecided until then, suddenly toppled as Tao scored ippon with an acrobatic uchi-mata. It was. Bronze medal for China.
Final (-57 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-57 kg)
