Welcome to the Iconic Paris Grand Slam in the Accor Hotels Arena!
In the build-up to the medal matches, the event was officially opened by Mr Marius Vizer, IJF President and Mr Stéphane Nomis, French Judo Federation President.
Before Mr Vizer also presented Mr Daniel Gyurta with an IJF Ambassador Diploma and Mr Raja Sapta Oktohari with an IJF honorary black belt.
At -48 kg, Shirine BOUKLI was looking to take top spot in front of the adoring home crowd.
In a heart-stopping final, BOUKLI would claim her second Grand Slam Gold in Paris.
Île-de-France Region Vice President Mr Patrick KARAM awarded the medals.
Balabay AGHAYEV of Azerbaijan finished the day on top spot in the -60 kg category. Another close contest with only a single yuko to decide it.
He was awarded his medal by IJF Guest Mr Timur KEMELL.
At -52 kg former Olympic champion Distria KRASNIQI of Kosovo wasted no time in claiming her gold medal. A beautiful technique in the opening moments placed her on top of the podium.
She was awarded her medal by OTP Group CEO Mr Peter CSANYI.
Takeshi TAKEOKA secured Japan’s first gold of the competition in the -66 kg category. A powerful waza-ari score into a hold down saw the fight to a close.
The medals were awarded by IOC Member Mr Morinari WATANABE.
At -57 kg Sarah-Léonie CYSIQUE brought the home crowd to their feet once more, claiming France’s second gold of the tournament witha waza-ari score.
Vivendi CEO Mr Arnaud DE PUYFONTAINE awarded the medal.
At -73 kg Makhmadbek MAKHMADBEKOV fulfilled one of his lifelong dreams, taking gold in Paris.
He was awarded his medal by AIMS President Mr Stephan FOX.
Rafaela SILVA of Brazil was taking no prisoners throughout the day in the -63 kg category. Forcing her opponent into submission, she leapt onto the top spot. This is her first gold in her new weight category.
She was awarded the gold medal by ICF President Mr Thomas KONIETZKO.
The energy has been electric here on Day 1. We’ll see you tomorrow for Day 2 and the Heavyweights.
