In the lower half, Nicole Marques (BRA) battled through intense rounds, including a long golden score period, before defeating Nungshithoi Chanu Leishangthem (IND) in a close semi-final.
The final saw Ruiz face Marques, while Monica Martinez de Rituerto Morillas (ESP), Tabea Nika Mecklenburg (GER), Hako Fukunaga (JPN) and Leishangthem (IND) fought for the bronze medals.
The final opened with an intense battle for grips, neither judoka managing to create a clear scoring opportunity in the first half of the contest. Ruiz and Marques proved equally dangerous on the ground, launching swift attacks but countering with just as much efficiency, adding much to the tension of their coaches and supporters. As the contest moved into golden score, fatigue and pressure began to show.
Ruiz picked up a second penalty two minutes into extra time, putting her on the brink of disqualification. Marques used her tactical awareness brilliantly, maintaining constant pressure and forcing her opponent to make mistakes. Eventually, the decisive third shido was given against Ruiz, handing Nicole Marques a well-deserved world junior title and a golden moment for Brazil. After her bronze medal at the cadet world championships in Sofia, this is an amazing move forward for Nicole Marques.
Bronze Medals Contets
Hako Fukunaga (JPN) vs Nungshithoi Chanu Leishangthem (IND)
Although Leishangthem showed determination and resilience, the bout was largely dominated by Fukunaga. The Japanese judoka capitalised on a failed attack from her opponent, transitioning perfectly into a counter to score ippon and secure bronze.
Monica Martinez de Rituerto Morillas (ESP) vs Tabea Nika Mecklenburg (GER)
This contest offered little suspense. After an initial observation phase, Mecklenburg took control on the ground, turned her opponent and held her firmly for ippon to clinch Germany’s first medal of the tournament.
A day of surprises and resilience, the –52kg category once again proved that junior judo is as much about heart and adaptability as it is about technique. For Nicole Marques and Brazil, it was a triumph born of patience, intelligence and perfect timing.
Final (-52 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-52 kg)
