The Masters is a separate competition, as we have seen (https://www.ijf.org/news/show/not-like-the-others), a competition in which the stakes are particularly high because in less a year from now, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be in full swing.
So the points handed out today, as well as those over the next two days, will no doubt play a big role in the months to come. Japan has already struck a blow with three gold medals and as many national anthems. Out of five categories it is obviously a good performance, although it was not overwhelming. We appreciated the technique of the Japanese judoka though. We know they are capable of the best and to witness it is always a great moment.
It was among the women that things were finally more divided, since of the three categories of the day, two were won by other nations. Buchard (FRA), who has had a very long season and is dreaming of a holiday, produced a very high level performance, while Klimkait (CAN) is relaunching in the race for Olympic qualification by dominating the -57kg category.
We had great pleasure to find a Vieru (MDA) at his best level at -66kg. We were delighted to discover Maria Celia Laborde (USA) in the -48kg final.
Here are some of the facts of the day. We could add dozens, but already we have to focus on the second day of competition which will begin at 10am sharp, for a final block at 17:00. Follow us on https://judotv.com/ and on all our social networks.