Roared on by a fervent home crowd, Shukurjon Aminova (UZB) produced the performance of her career, halting Liparteliani’s progress and securing a deserved, if unexpected, place in the final for the host nation. The arena erupted as Aminova ensured local representation in the gold medal contest.
In the lower half of the draw, Faiza Mokdar (FRA), a bronze medallist in Paris just weeks earlier, looked the most likely to join her. The French judoka had been building steady momentum on the World Judo Tour and carried genuine ambitions of reaching another grand slam final.
Those hopes were dashed by Mio Shirakane (JPN). Although not yet a major reference on the senior circuit, Shirakane had already claimed a grand slam bronze medal and the 2025 junior world title, credentials that hinted at her potential. On the day, she translated that promise into performance, eliminating Mokdar and opening the door to a breakthrough run.
With the path cleared, Shirakane advanced confidently to the final, where she faced Aminova in a contest few had predicted at the start of the day. It proved to be a contest of tremendous intensity. At the end of a fiercely contested battle, it was Aminova and the entire arena, who were smiling. As a third penalty was awarded to Shirakane, a broad smile spread across the face of the Uzbek judoka. It was gold for Aminova and a first title of the tournament for the host nation; a perfect double triumph, sporting success and national celebration combined.
Brazil were guaranteed a place on the podium, as the first bronze medal contest featured an all-Brazilian clash between Bianca Reis (BRA) and Jessica Lima (BRA). With less than a minute remaining after a tightly fought contest, it was Lima who scored the decisive yuko to secure victory.
In the second bronze medal contest, Ana Viktorija Puljiz (CRO) stepped onto the tatami against Liparteliani, who sought to salvage her campaign with a place on the podium. After an initial chaotic exchange that could have swung either way, Liparteliani imposed her power to score a first waza-ari. Yet, less than a minute later, Puljiz drew level with a sharp shoulder technique. Unfazed by her opponent’s world title status, the Croatian continued to apply pressure. In golden score, that persistence paid off, as Puljiz secured a decisive yuko to claim her place on the podium.
Final (-57 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-57 kg)
