Tajikistan welcomed the exhilarating Dushanbe Grand Slam, a highlight of the World Judo Tour that drew enthusiastic crowds eager to witness exceptional displays of skill and competitive spirit. The venue was bursting with spectators, necessitating the use of outdoor viewing areas to accommodate the throngs of dedicated judo fans, underscoring the sport’s esteemed status in the country.
Notable performances and emerging champions
In the -48kg category, Anudari JAMSRAN showcased her prowess against Wenna ZHUANG. Although ZHUANG initially took the lead with a yuko, JAMSRAN demonstrated remarkable resilience, scoring ippon just before the match concluded, thus clinching her first gold medal on the World Judo Tour. This victory marks a significant milestone for the promising Mongolian athlete.
Mr. Nurali SHARIFOV, Chair of the Badakhshan Mountainous Autonomous Region Judo Federation, was present to award the medals, celebrating the achievements of the competitors.
In the -60kg division, Balabay AGHAYEV delivered an impressive performance against local favorite Mehrzod SUFIEV. With a tactical waza-ari, Aghayev transitioned into an arm lock, successfully compelling Sufiev to submit with an ippon. This victory added yet another gold medal to Aghayev’s accolades.
Mr. Zulfikor GULAHMADZODA, Chair of the Tajikistan Youth & Sports Committee, was on hand to present the medal to Aghayev, further highlighting the spirit of the event.
Stars of the tournament shine bright
In the -52kg category, renowned World and Olympic medallist Amandine BUCHARD faced off against Mukhayyo AKHMATOVA. Buchard exhibited dominance throughout the competition, concluding her final match by expertly securing a shime-waza that forced her opponent’s submission and earned her an emphatic ippon victory. The medal presentation was officiated by Ms. Shabnam RAHIMZODA, 1st Deputy Chair of the Tajikistan Youth & Sports Committee.
The -66kg matches featured an all-Tajik contest between Nurali EMOMALI and Obid DZHEBOV, where a spectacular ippon from Emomali electrified the crowd, solidifying his position as the leading judoka in this category at the national level. The medals were awarded by Mr. Ismoil MAHMADZOIR, President of the Tajikistan Judo Federation.
In the -57kg category, Sarah Leonie CYSIQUE triumphed over Natalia ELKINA with a decisive hold down, earning her the second Grand Slam gold medal of her career. Her victory was celebrated with a medal presented by Mr. Vladimir BARTA, Head Sport Director of the IJF.
Among the local talents, 17-year-old Madina QURBONZODA distinguished herself by securing a historic bronze medal, lighting up the arena with her remarkable performance.
As day one of the Dushanbe Grand Slam comes to a close, the excitement in the arena lingers, with anticipation growing for the forthcoming competitions. Stay tuned for more thrilling judo action!