Hershko (ISR) and Giovanna Santos (BRA) would be fighting for gold. Santos has 3 grand prix bronze medals on her CV but nothing higher and so, on paper, Hershko should have the gold already banked. Judo is not ever that simple though and Santos came on to the tatami ready to fight for the top spot.
A number of failed attacks brought penalties to both athletes and so Hershko changed her plan and worked on the floor. She kept hold of the end of Santos’ sleeve after an attack of her own and converted it into a submission, an ippon call and a gold medal.
Leonie Minkada-Caquineau (FRA) is just 18 years old. Already a world and continental medallist at the junior and cadet levels, she is already present on the World Judo Tour and has a grand prix medal from Zagreb last November. Just one of France’s incredible cohort of heavyweight women, she is one to watch for the future.
Arriving in Linz as the fifth seed, she worked hard to stay afloat in a group of more experienced judoka, much more experienced. Hard work pays for a lot though in judo and she earned a place in the final block and would face Yuli Alma Mushier for a bronze medal.
Emma Melis-Aktas (EST) and Akerke Ramazanova (KAZ) only fought for one a half minutes, a bronze medal at stake. The Estonian, more active, more determined and more positive, looked ready to take the win. She threw her opponent with a makikomi, letting go completely with one hand part way through but just keeping enough contact to guide the direction of the movement. A review ion the action confirmed the referee’s assessment and Aktas could climb on to her second grand prix podium.
Final (+78 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (+78 kg)
