The 28-year-old defeated junior world champion April Lynn Fohouo (SUI) in the final, scoring ippon in golden score. This is Polleres' seventh World Judo Tour gold medal, including one at the IJF World Judo Masters in 2022.
After the medal ceremony, Polleres spoke to the Austrian Judo Federation, “The atmosphere in the hall was incredible; they were chanting my name. My family, my friends and many colleagues from our club were there. It's very special to win in front of your home crowd, especially after the long break. I struggled in the first fight, but then it got better and better. In the final, I was very well prepared.”
Austrian Judo Federation head coach Yvonne Snir-Bönisch also commented, “It's impressive how well Michi fought today. It's only her third tournament after more than a year's break from competition. Only an exceptional athlete like Michi can do that. Congratulations!”
The Austrian team were having a difficult tournament until Polleres stepped on to the tatami. Reigniting belief and hope, she brought her best judo and an undeniable spirit with her and showed her team that judo always offers possibility.
Source: Austrian Judo Federation.