After an initial phase of observation, both finalists sought to establish control, testing one another tactically. It was ultimately on the ground that Ballhaus found the breakthrough, transitioning seamlessly into a hold-down in two movements to secure ippon. The German judoka’s precision left Pupp visibly dejected after her spectacular semi-final performance. This victory marked Ballhaus’s third grand slam gold and perhaps her most significant yet.
The first bronze medal contest brought together Gefen Primo (ISR) and Odette Giuffrida (ITA) in a tightly contested battle for a place on the podium. The match remained closed, with neither athlete finding a clear opening. It became a question of tactical patience and of who would falter first. Eventually, Primo relaxed her guard for a fraction of a second, just enough for Giuffrida to seize the moment and score with a kata-guruma, earning a yuko that secured the bronze.
Naomi Van Krevel (NED) faced the formidable challenge of taking on Distria Krasniqi (KOS) in the second bronze medal contest. Using her reach advantage, Van Krevel committed wholeheartedly to the fight but her bold approach was punished quickly as Krasniqi scored two yukos in quick succession.
A third yuko widened the gap, though the Dutch judoka continued to press forward with determination. Effort alone was not enough on this occasion and it was Krasniqi who claimed the bronze medal.
Final (-52 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-52 kg)
