The IJF World Judo Tour made its triumphant return to one of its most celebrated venues: the Steppe Arena in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This Grand Slam event held a special significance as the first tournament to offer crucial qualification points for the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, drawing a constellation of the sport’s biggest stars to the heart of Asia. The atmosphere was electric, a blend of focused intensity and cultural reverence, as athletes from across the globe prepared to compete on a stage known for its passionate fans and high-level judo. This opening day was dedicated to the lighter weight categories, setting the scene for a spectacular display of speed, technique, and tactical brilliance that would lay down an early marker in the long road to LA.
The women’s -48kg final set the tone for the day, featuring a razor-close contest between Japan’s Wakana Koga and China’s Zhuang Wenna. In a match where every grip and movement was critical, the slightest advantage proved decisive. Koga managed to secure a yuko score with a well-timed ouchi-gari (inner leg reap), a single point that stood as the difference in a tightly fought battle. Her victory was honored by International Judo Federation Education and Coaching Director Mohammed Meridja, who presented the medals—a moment of quiet triumph in a category known for its dynamism. This opening gold underscored the fine margins at the pinnacle of the sport, where a single skillful attack can crown a champion.
The men’s -60kg final delivered a dream matchup between two titans: world number one Balabay Aghayev of Azerbaijan and current world champion Ryuju Nagayama of Japan. This high-caliber clash lived up to its billing, a gripping chess match of grips and feints. Ultimately, it was Aghayev who etched his name on the gold medal, his tactical prowess yielding a vital yuko score that Nagayama could not overcome. The Azeri star’s victory was celebrated by Vice President of the Mongolian Judo Association, Turbold Boldbaatar, who awarded the medals. This result not only solidified Aghayev’s top ranking but also sent a powerful message about the intense competition brewing in the lead-up to the next Olympic cycle.
Japanese dominance was a recurring theme, exemplified by the legendary Uta Abe in the -52kg category. The Olympic and five-time world champion was in imperious form, sweeping through the draw with her characteristic blend of technical perfection and relentless pressure. Her path to gold was finalized without a final contest, as her opponent was unable to compete, awarding Abe the title. This victory marked a historic milestone: a record-breaking 12th Grand Slam gold medal, the most ever won by any female judoka. Referee Director Tina Trstenjak of the IJF had the honor of presenting the medal, acknowledging not just a single win, but a career of sustained, unparalleled excellence that continues to redefine the sport.
Japan’s golden run continued unabated. In the -66kg division, current world champion Takeshi Takeoka looked utterly supreme, navigating the tournament with confidence and power. His final against Ramazan Abdulaev was decided by a strong waza-ari score, a half-point victory that felt commanding. The medals were presented by Mr. Bilegt Erdenesaikhan, Chair of the Mongolian State Committee of Physical Culture and Sports. Shortly after, Akari Omori secured a fourth gold for Japan in the -57kg category. In a tactical final against France’s Sarah-Léonie Cysique, Omori seized a fleeting opportunity to execute a brilliant sacrifice technique, scoring to claim the title. IJF Referee Supervisor Mathieu Bataille awarded her the medal, capping off a stunningly successful day for the Japanese team.
The day concluded on a heartfelt note for the host nation, as Sukhbat Byambasuren battled his way to a hard-earned bronze medal, sending waves of jubilation through the Steppe Arena. The roar of the home crowd for their local hero was a perfect encapsulation of judo’s spirit—international in scope, yet deeply personal in its celebrations. As the lights dimmed on the tatami, the stage was set for another day of world-class action. With the middleweight categories awaiting their turn, fans were left anticipating more drama, more history, and more unforgettable moments from the judo stars continuing their quest for glory and Olympic dreams in Ulaanbaatar.
