Iriskhon Kurbanbaeva (UZB) was caught by surprise by Tina Radic (CRO) in the first of the two +78 kg bronze medal contests. Radic went straight for a direct uchi-mata and scored ippon after only ten seconds on the tatami. It earned a big cheer from the spectators, appreciating all good judo even when there isn’t a home athlete in front of them. It was a spectacular throw and a brave decision. Congratulations to Tina Radic.
Miki Mukunoki (JPN) came out straight away, looking for an equally fast finish but just fell short of the mark with her uchi-mata which scored waza-ari. She tried to secure the hold but Paulien Zweers (NED) was able to escape and give herself a chance to equalise or even lead. However, her seoi-otoshi just into the last minute was applied too slowly to catch the Japanese fighter and Zweers was countered to give Mukunoki a second waza-ari. This is her second grand prix medal.
The all-French final between two outstanding juniors, offered a glimpse into the future. Dicko, Fontaine, Hayme, Tolofua and others have been winning big senior medals for many years but there is a constant stream of new judoka to add to the list, Celia Cancan and Grace-Esther Mienandi Lahou among them.
Cancan played a very tactical strategy and it was perfect for her needs. She ensured she took no major risks, not allowing Mienandi Lahou the chance to counter or event complete an attack. She did enough of her own attacks to avoid being penalised and so won the gold medal with a tactical awareness far in advance of her 18 years. This is her first WJT medal.
Final (+78 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (+78 kg)
