The Serbian judoka’s run came to an end against Olympic medallist Madina Taimazova (IJF) who, with her trademark flexibility, progressed to the final. Unseeded at the start of the day, she demonstrated her ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Much was expected of world champion Shiho Tanaka (JPN). After a demanding opening contest against France’s Melkia Auchecorne (FRA), who pushed her to the limit, Tanaka was eventually defeated by the powerful Portuguese judoka Tais Pina who imposed her physical strength throughout the contest.
In the end, it was Aoife Coughlan (AUS) who emerged from the bottom half of the draw, delivering a strong and consistent performance to secure her place in the final alongside Taimazova. The Russian judoka is known for her ability to remain unyielding under pressure and Coughlan struggled to find a solution. Taimazova eventually took the advantage with a yuko from a backward-driven soei-otoshi, maintaining control until the end of the contest. This is her fourth grand slam gold medal.
Ida Eriksson (SWE) and Tais Pina (POR) contested the first bronze medal match. It proved to be a long and tactical contest with Eriksson eventually prevailing through superior control and discipline.
Shiho Tanaka (JPN) and Aleksandra Andric (SRB) faced off in the second bronze medal contest. As in the first, the outcome was decided by tactics, with Tanaka securing the medal through a composed and strategic performance.
Final (-70 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-70 kg)
