Her semi-final against Manon Deketer (FRA) was anything but straightforward. Under pressure and often forced onto the back foot, Beauchemin-Pinard appeared a little behind for much of the contest. As the end of normal time approached, the momentum seemed to favour the French judoka. Yet, that is precisely when great champions reveal themselves. Digging deep, Beauchemin-Pinard found the necessary resources to score almost on the buzzer, turning the contest in her favour at the last possible moment. Deketer was left in disbelief, while the Canadian allowed herself a broad smile of relief and satisfaction.
In the lower half of the draw, Iva Oberan (CRO) had her sights set firmly on a place in the final. Standing in her way, however, was Narumi Tanioka (JPN), an athlete who may not compete frequently outside Japan but whose international appearances have resulted in podium finishes consistently. With a grand slam silver and bronze in 2025, as well as a title at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games, Tanioka had already demonstrated her ability to deliver when it matters most. In Tashkent she rose to the occasion once again, progressing through her section of the draw with consistency and composure to secure her place in the gold medal contest.
The final therefore pitted Beauchemin-Pinard’s experience and proven pedigree against Tanioka’s precision and growing international reputation. This time, experience was not enough. Despite her tactical awareness and resilience, the Canadian was unable to find a solution. Tanioka controlled the exchanges and ultimately secured victory, claiming the first gold medal of the day and confirming her steady ascent on the international stage.
In the first bronze medal contest, Angelika Szymanska (POL) faced the 2024 world champion Joanne Van Lieshout (NED), a high-quality match-up between two athletes accustomed to major stages. Unimpressed by her opponent’s résumé, Szymanska, herself a world medallist, imposed her rhythm and cemented her victory with a decisive yuko.
For the second bronze medal, Gili Sharir (ISR) met Deketer, a French judoka determined to regroup quickly after the narrow disappointment of her semi-final. Deketer managed to secure a yuko advantage and, despite heavy pressure from Sharir in the closing moments, held firm to claim the last place on the podium.
Final (-63 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-63 kg)
