Having reached the podium on the World Judo Tour several times this year, Xin Su (CHN) had hopes of collecting new points and climbing to the top of the podium. Unfortunately for her, she quickly became disillusioned, as she was eliminated by Erica Simonetti, ranked 50th in the world; a real surprise. The Italian continued her progression and reached the semi-final where she faced Kamila Berlikash (KAZ). It was too much for her and she bowed out, letting the Kazakh pass ahead of her.
Final, Kamila Berlikash (KAZ) vs Rochele Nunes (POR)

It still remained to know who her opponent would be. It was Rochele Nunes (POR), already a finalist a few weeks ago in Baku, who joined her. Visibly in good shape, the Portuguese judoka is gaining strength and seems increasingly difficult to beat.

Gold medallist, Rochele Nunes (POR)
Final, Kamila Berlikash (KAZ) and Rochele Nunes (POR)

We could expect an offensive from Nunes and that is excactly what happened. She rapidly scored a waza-ari and pinned Berlikash for ippon. The gold medal was for Nunes and Portugal.

Bronze medal contest, Larisa Ceric (BIH) and Elis Startseva (AIN)

During the first contest for a bronze medal, Larisa Ceric (BIH) and Elis Startseva (AIN) faced off, the experience against the youth. Today it was the youth that won with Elis Startseva applying a perfectly timed yoko-guruma for ippon.

Bronze medal contest, Lea Fontaine (FRA) vs Erica Simonetti (ITA)

Lea Fontaine (FRA), looking for valuable points in a category which in France is largely dominated by Romane Dicko, wanted to do well. She had to settle for a possible bronze medal only, but for this Erica Simonetti (ITA) still stood in the way. The difference in size between the two judoka didn't stop Simonetti from trying, she really did, but in the end Lea Fontaine applied a beautiful sumi-gaeshi that took Simonetti over and the French athlete concluded with an immobilisation for ippon. It was bronze for Fontaine.

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Franco Capelletti, Chairman of the International Judo Federation Kata Commission and 10th Dan, and Ms Amal Abu Shailak, General Treasurer of the Judo Union of Asia and Board Member of the UAE National Olympic committee

Final (+78 kg)

Bronze Medal Fights (+78 kg)

See also