The second day of the 2025 Zagreb Grand Prix promised to be a spectacle for the judo family to enjoy. Inside the arena the home fans were hopeful of some Croatian success.
The crowd were treated to an opening ceremony consisting of a traditional Nage-no kata demonstration from two local young judoka, followed by speeches from Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, Mr Andrej Plenković, IJF Head Sport Director, Mr Vladimir Barta, deputy Mayor of the City of Zagreb, Dr Luka Korlaet, president of the Croatian Judo Federation, Dr Sanda Čorak.
At -63 kg, Gili SHARIR won her first Grand Prix gold medal after outworking her opponent.
Croatia Minister of Tourism & Sport, Mr Tonči GLAVINA was on hand to award the medals.
The -73 kg category final saw Giovanni ESPOSITO end things in an instant. After a failed attack from his Spanish opponent, a superb counter scored ippon!
He was awarded his medals by Mr Albano CARRISI, IJF Ambassador.
At -70kg a dominant looking TANAKA Shiho showed why she is world champion.
Expertly dispatching Clemence Eme of France to take the gold, before greeting her local fans.
She was awarded her medal by City of Zagreb Deputy Mayor, Dr Luka KORLAET.
At -81kg it was Arnaud AREGBA who dominated the final. The Frenchman eventually overcame Bernd FASCHING of Austria, throwing into a hold down, to end the contest.
The medals were awarded by Paris 2024 Olympic Champion, Ms Barbara MATIĆ.
A strong showing from the home fighters produced some great judo throughout this second day.
Topped off with a superb bronze medal for Iva OBERAN.
Wonderful hip movement and control of her opponent resulted in a thundering ippon. Thoroughly enjoyed by Matić, the crowd and the Prime Minister.
See you tomorrow for the heavy-weights…
