Final
Maria Celia Laborde (USA) vs Eva Perez Soler (ESP)
In less than fifteen seconds, Laborde took the lead with a precise seoi-otoshi, immediately setting the tone of the final. After this strong opening though, the contest settled into a balanced rhythm, both judoka managing their attacks carefully. As penalties began to appear, Laborde controlled the tempo perfectly, maintaining her advantage until the final gong without taking unnecessary risks. This was a well-deserved gold medal for Maria Celia Laborde and the United States.
Bronze Medal Contests
Jade Perez (MEX) vs Mary Dee Vargas Ley (CHI)
An all-Pan-American contest saw Vargas Ley strike first, scoring waza-ari with an almost perfect koshi-waza in its makikomi form. Missing full impact on the back, she followed up quickly with a clean ko-uchi-gari for a second waza-ari. This is the third consecutive World Judo Tour medal for Mary Dee Vargas Ley (CHI): silver in China, gold in Lima and now bronze in Guadalajara. Congratulations!
Heidi Quach (CAN) vs Tamar Malca (ISR)
This was a balanced contest until Tamar Malca capitalised on a transition to the ground, securing a hold-down for ippon and taking the bronze medal.
Final (-48 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-48 kg)
