France and germany strong at European Tour opening day in Prague

The first day of the European Judo Open in Prague saw thrilling performances with France and Germany leading the medal tally. Both nations demonstrated their judo prowess, with France collecting an impressive haul of eight medals, including two golds. The French team showed their strength across multiple categories, particularly in the women's divisions.

Gaetane Deberdt emerged as one of the standout athletes for France, claiming gold in the U63kg category after defeating Italy's Agnese Zucco in the final. Deberdt's composure and tactical superiority were evident throughout the day, further solidifying France’s status as a judo powerhouse. In the +78kg division, Dounia Nacer led an all-French final, beating her compatriot Oceane Diarrassouba to take home the gold. France’s depth in this division was evident, as Laura Fuseau also secured a bronze, ensuring an all-French podium finish.

French women continued their medal-winning form in the U70kg category, where Kaila Issoufi and Florine Soula both earned bronze medals. The men’s team also contributed to the medal count, with Richard Vergnes claiming a bronze in the U60kg division, rounding out a strong first day for the French squad.

Germany’s women’s team also delivered outstanding performances, collecting two gold medals. Samira Bock dominated the U70kg category, defeating Switzerland’s Gioia Vetterli in a final that highlighted Bock’s exceptional gripping and tactical judo. Anna-Monta Olek added another gold for Germany in the U78kg division, where she overcame France’s Liz Ngelebeya to stand atop the podium. Julie Hoelterhoff also secured bronze in the same category, further underlining Germany’s strength in the women’s middle and heavyweight divisions.

In the men’s categories, Israel’s Roie Rosen captured the gold in the U60kg division, defeating Azerbaijan’s Huseyn Allahyarov in a hard-fought final. Azerbaijan also tasted victory in the U66kg division, where Rashad Yelkiyev claimed gold after overcoming Hungary’s Bence Mathe. Italy’s Leonardo Valeriani secured first place in the U73kg category, defeating Vladyslav Kazimirov of Ukraine, who had to settle for silver. Ukraine also earned a bronze medal in the U73kg category through Serhii Nebotov.

Italy had a strong presence across various divisions, with Biagio D’Angelo claiming bronze in the U60kg category and Federico Ninfo securing a bronze in the U66kg division. These results highlighted the depth of talent within Italy’s judo ranks.

Overall, the first day of the European Open in Prague was a showcase of exceptional judo, with France and Germany clearly dominating the competition. France’s medal tally, particularly in the women’s categories, reaffirmed their position as a dominant force in European judo. Meanwhile, Germany’s success, especially in the middle and heavier weight divisions, confirmed their strength and depth. The competition promises to be even more exciting as the tournament continues, with a range of nations, including Italy and Azerbaijan, making their mark in the men’s events.