Children came out in droves again to fill the National Gymnastics Arena and see their sporting heroes on their way to victory in one of the biggest events on the IJF world judo tour.

There was interest from abroad in the -90 kg final, where Murad FATIYEV defeated the strong player of the category, Krisztian TOTH, from Hungary.

Almost four minutes into the golden period, Fatiyev tried his luck and responded to the pressured Toth on the edge of the field, much to the delight of the crowd.

Murad Fatiyev said, “The crowd, the audience supported us a lot.” “Probably thanks to their support, I got this result. We have already won three gold medals and we believe that we will get another medal in the next final.”

Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports Farid GAYIBOV was also present at the medal ceremony.

Guusje STEENHUIS and Yuliia KURCHENKO also won the gold medal after a tough fight in the under 78 kilo category. Although STEENHUIS had never wasted time there before, a perfectly timed ko-uchi gari in the first exchange swept his opponent off his feet and sealed the deal.

He received his medal from IJF Chief Sports Director Vladimir BARTA.

“The gold medal was a while ago. So it’s really good for my confidence to show everyone that I can take home a gold medal as well,” Steenhuis said.

People really like to throw and win, that’s really nice.”

World number one in the under 100kg category, Ilia SULAMANIDZE, wasted no time in claiming the top spot on the podium; This sacrificial technique took over Piotr KUCZERA for ippon.

His medal was presented by Harvest Group CEO Almaz ALSENOV.

In the over 78 kilo class, Romane DICKO won the championship with a tactical victory against Italian Asya TAVANO in the final.

The medals were awarded by IJF Training and Coaching Director Mohammed MERIDJA.

In the over 100kg category, Valeriy ENDOVITSKIY ended the event in style by spectacularly launching Dzhamal GAMZATKHANOV for an impressive Ippon!

The medals were awarded by IJF Chief Referee Director Ki-Young JEON.

Azeri judoka once again performed for the noisy crowd at home! They show their passion and dedication for judo!

And with the conclusion of this year’s Grand Slam, the world judo tour bids a fond farewell to the land of fire!

Until next time… until Judo returns to Tashkent.