The two top seeds took lumps out of the rest of the field. Olympic and double world champion Rafaela Silva (BRA), still sharp and strong at 33 years old, after 17 years on the World Judo Tour, looked to be in devastating form. Perhaps her secret is that she loves it; no-one looks more at home on a tatami than Rafa!
Facing Rafaela Silva to compete for the gold medal was Olympic and double world bronze medallist Laura Fazliu, Kosovo’s latest star, always a near guarantee of a medal no matter who else seeks the podium.
Both judoka came out wanting to throw and this is what the judo public love to see. This was a contest fought at the highest level by two athletes who know how to reach a podium. Only one winner could come out of it though and the all-important score came from Silva as the last minute approached. Fazliu fought hard to get it back but it wasn’t to be. Silva’s yuko throw was enough to earn her a gold medal, Fazliu had to accept silver.
In the first bronze medal contest, Bauer (GER) took on Kerem Primo (ISR), both determined, both prepared to give everything. Several near misses from each judoka made for a lively match which continued long into golden score. Eventually the medal winner was decided via penalties but it was an all-action contest from start to finish; 7 minutes of dynamic work from two hard working judoka. Congratulations to Kerem Primo, a new grand prix medal will be added to her prize list.
Aiming at the second bronze medal, Primo’s teammate Gili Sharir stepped on to the tatami to face Laura Vazquez Fernandez (ESP), a first-timer in a World Judo Tour final block. Sharir, more experienced and more decorated, arrived with confidence but also caution because nothing is guaranteed in judo.
The first score came from Sharir, a well structured pick-up for a waza-ari. Not too long later she doubled the score to ensure the medal would be hers. Vazquez Fernandez is improving but today Sharir was better. Israel takes both bronzes in the category.
Final (-63 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-63 kg)
