Kazakhstan shines on day one of Judo Grand Slam with golden start

The Judo Grand Slam Astana 2024 has been a thrilling event, with Judo stars from around the world showcasing their skills and determination to secure victory. The final Grand Slam event before this year’s World Championships and Olympic Games, the competition in Astana has been fierce and exciting.

In the -48kg category, Galiya TYNBAYEVA wowed the home crowd by making it into the final and ultimately winning her first ever world judo tour gold on home soil. Tynbayeva’s cleverly timed sacrifice techniques earned her the well-deserved victory, much to the delight of the spectators in attendance.

Meanwhile, at -60kg, Ramazan ABDULAEV put on a spectacular performance in the final, securing his third grand slam gold with a beautiful juji-gatame that forced his opponent to submit. The crowd was on their feet as Abdulaev claimed his well-earned victory.

In the -52kg category, Gefen Primo lived up to her number one seed status by defeating Larissa Pimenta in a tough contest. Primo’s ashi-waza technique secured her the win and the gold medal, much to the delight of the fans.

The competition continued with Murad CHOPANOV claiming gold in the -66kg category with a stunning throw followed by a hold down to seal the win. The excitement reached a peak in the -57kg category, where Christa DEGUCHI and Rafaela SILVA battled it out in an all pan-american final, with Deguchi ultimately taking home the gold.

Overall, the Judo Grand Slam Astana 2024 has been a showcase of talent, skill, and determination, with athletes from around the world leaving it all on the mat in pursuit of victory.