Linz, Austria – Over 400 judokas from around the globe converged in the picturesque city of Linz for the 2025 Upper Austria Judo Grand Prix, a key event on the World Judo Tour. 1 The competition, held from March 7th to 9th, showcased intense rivalries and exceptional displays of skill, culminating in five athletes claiming the coveted gold medals. 2
Day 1 Highlights
The first day of competition saw captivating performances across several weight categories. In the women's -48kg division, Kazakhstan's Abiba Abuzhakynova demonstrated her dominance, defeating Japan's Sachiyo Yoshino to secure her second Grand Prix gold medal. The medal ceremony was conducted by FIJ General Secretary, Dr. Lisa Allan.
In the men's -60kg category, Japan's 19-year-old prodigy, Yamato Fukuda, continued his impressive form, adding another gold medal to his collection. FIJ Refereeing Director, Mr. Florin Daniel Lascau, presented the medals.
The highly anticipated women's -52kg final pitted Tokyo Olympic champion Distria Krasniqi against rising star Oi Iroha. In a stunning upset, the young Japanese judoka, making her Grand Prix debut, emerged victorious, claiming the gold medal. FIJ Education and Training Director, Mohammed Meridja, awarded the medals.
Day 2 Highlights
The second day of the Grand Prix featured equally thrilling action. In the men's -66kg division, Brazil's Ronald Lima achieved a momentous victory, capturing his first Grand Prix gold medal. A remarkable display of ne-waza prowess enabled him to pin down Japan's Fukuchi for the decisive waza-ari. The Governor of Upper Austria, Thomas Stelzer, presented the medals.
The women's -57kg category saw a nail-biting final between Canada's Christa Deguchi and Kosovo's Nora Gjakova. In a closely contested match, Deguchi emerged victorious, securing the gold medal.
Day 3 Highlights
The final day of the Grand Prix featured the heavier weight categories. In the men's -73kg division, Georgia's Lasha Shavdatuashvili, a seasoned veteran, showcased his experience, defeating Azerbaijan's Hidayat Heydarov to claim the gold medal.
In the women's -63kg category, Slovenia's Andreja Leski delivered a stellar performance, overcoming a strong challenge from Austria's Magdalena Krssakova to secure the gold medal.
Athlete Interviews and Reactions
Following their victories, the gold medalists shared their thoughts on their performances.
Abiba Abuzhakynova: "I am thrilled to have won my second Grand Prix gold medal. I have been training hard, and this victory is a testament to my dedication."
Yamato Fukuda: "This is another important step in my career. I am grateful for the support of my coaches and teammates."
Oi Iroha: "I am overjoyed to have won gold in my Grand Prix debut. It was an honor to compete against such a strong opponent."
Ronald Lima: "This is a dream come true. I have worked tirelessly for this moment."
The 2025 Upper Austria Judo Grand Prix proved to be a resounding success, showcasing the world's best judokas and providing fans with unforgettable moments. The event further solidified Linz's reputation as a premier destination for international judo competitions.
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