The first three minutes unfolded as a succession of seoi-otoshi attempts from both sides, none of them threatening enough to break through. The most dangerous attack came from Carna, whose more committed and better-positioned seoi-otoshi earned Mimi Huh a first shido. With the score still level and only the Korean judoka carrying a penalty, the contest moved into golden score.
As Carna appeared to be gaining the upper hand, a momentary lapse on the ground changed everything. Huh seized her chance without hesitation; exhausted and under pressure, she found the perfect opportunity to secure a hold-down. Five seconds were all she needed. It was gold in Abu Dhabi, a city that continues to bring her remarkable success.
In the first bronze medal contest, Marta Garcia Martin (ESP) faced Binta Ndiaye (SUI). It was far from an easy win for the Spaniard, who endured continuous pressure from Ndiaye throughout the four-minute contest, but it was Garcia Martin who scored a yuko with a circular uchi-mata. Ndiaye kept pushing forward, yet each attempt was systematically shut down by Garcia Martin’s rock-solid defence. The victory earned Garcia Martin her first grand slam medal and her first podium finish on the World Judo Tour.
Natalia Elkina (RUS) faced Julie Beurskens (NED) in the second bronze medal contest. The medal ultimately went to the Netherlands, with Beurskens securing a controlled and tactical victory.
Final (-57 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-57 kg)
