Final
Haruka Kaju (JPN) vs Jessica Klimkait (CAN)
Klimkait knew perfectly well what awaited her, Kaju’s ground game is among the most dangerous on the circuit, but when the contest first went to ne-waza, it was still the reigning world champion who took full advantage. Transitioning smoothly, she freed her leg from Klimkait’s grip and secured an unbreakable hold. The clock ticked down and with unshakable control, Haruka Kaju claimed ippon. This is a first grand prix gold medal for the Japanese star but almost certainly not her last.
Bronze Medal Contests
Inbal Shemesh (ISR) vs Nauana Silva (BRA)
The contest remained finely balanced throughout, the two judoka exchanging attacks without finding the decisive moment. As the seconds stretched into golden score, Nauana Silva struck with a moment of brilliance, a magnificent left ashi-guruma that sent Shemesh crashing onto her back. The Brazilian roared in triumph, securing a beautiful bronze medal for Brazil.
Kaja Kajzer (SLO) vs Rafaela Silva (BRA)
In the second bronze medal contest, Rafaela Silva wasted no time asserting her authority. A sharp o-uchi-gari gave her the advantage early on and soon after, an acrobatic counter sealed the victory. The result added yet another Brazilian medal to the tally, two Silvas sharing the podium, a fitting reflection of the nation’s judo depth.
Final (-63 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-63 kg)
