Day two of the Zagreb Grand Prix kicked off with a showcase of local judo talent, including an impressive kata demonstration and a group performance of the Croatian National Anthem. One of the standout performers of the day was Japan’s Kirari Yamaguchi, who clinched the gold at -63kg. Yamaguchi used ashi-waza to score waza-ari against France’s Manon Deketer, before securing a hold down for waza-ari-awasete-ippon. Hungary’s Daniel Szegedi also had a memorable day, winning his first World Judo Tour medal, a gold, with a magnificent ippon.
The medals were awarded by IJF President Mr Marius Vizer and IJF Director General Mr Vlad Marinescu. Szegedi expressed his joy at winning in Zagreb, a place with special memories for him. Sanne Vermeer of The Netherlands also had a successful day, coming from behind to score an ippon and clinch gold at -70kg. Despite being a waza-ari down in the final, Vermeer’s brilliant counterattack and pin earned her a first Grand Prix gold since 2019.
At -81kg, Victor Sterpu of Moldova secured the first Grand Prix gold of his career with two waza-ari scores leading to a match-winning ippon. The Moldovan judoka’s victory was celebrated by Moldova National Judo Federation Vice President, Mr Victor Florescu. As the competition progresses, more judo action is expected, with the heavyweights set to compete on the following day.
Day two of the Zagreb Grand Prix saw some exciting judo action, with standout performances from athletes such as Kirari Yamaguchi, Daniel Szegedi, Sanne Vermeer, and Victor Sterpu. This article provides a comprehensive summary of the happenings during the competition, highlighting the medalists, their strategies, and the significance of their victories. The event opened with a display of local talent, setting the stage for a day filled with thrilling matches and memorable moments. Stay tuned for more updates on the competition and upcoming judo action.
Kicking off the day with a display of local judo talent and the Croatian National Anthem, day two of the Zagreb Grand Prix saw Japan’s Kirari Yamaguchi emerge victorious at -63kg. Yamaguchi showcased her skills with ashi-waza to secure a waza-ari against France’s Manon Deketer, followed by a hold down for waza-ari-awasete-ippon. Hungary’s Daniel Szegedi also impressed with his first World Judo Tour gold, achieved with a magnificent ippon. The medals were awarded by IJF officials, Mr Marius Vizer and Mr Vlad Marinescu, adding a sense of prestige to the athletes’ victories.
Sanne Vermeer of The Netherlands showcased resilience and skill at -70kg, coming from behind to score an ippon and claim her first Grand Prix gold since 2019. Despite being a waza-ari down in the final, Vermeer’s determination and tactical acumen helped her secure the victory. Moldova’s Victor Sterpu also had a standout performance at -81kg, winning his first Grand Prix gold with two waza-ari scores leading to an ippon. The Moldovan judoka’s achievement was recognized by the Moldova National Judo Federation Vice President, Mr Victor Florescu, highlighting the significance of his victory.
As the competition progresses, anticipation builds for more judo action, with the heavyweights set to compete on the following day. The Zagreb Grand Prix continues to be a platform for athletes to showcase their skills, resilience, and determination, with each victory reflecting years of training and dedication. Stay tuned for more updates on the competition, as athletes from around the world compete for glory and recognition on the judo stage. Whether it’s a display of technical mastery, tactical brilliance, or sheer determination, the Zagreb Grand Prix offers a glimpse into the world of elite judo and the passion that drives these athletes to strive for excellence.
