Koga and Yusifov Claim Gold on the First Day of the World Judo Championships in Baku
Welcome to Baku, where the stars of world judo compete for the coveted red patch at the 2026 World Championships.
In the women's under 48 kg category, Italian Assunta Scutto reached the finals for the third consecutive time, showcasing excellent judo. Her opponent was Japan's Wakana Koga, who performed at a high level throughout the day. Will this year be her golden year?
The final featured two experienced judokas. The match was fiercely contested, but Koga seized her opportunity in groundwork and executed it flawlessly. Wakana Koga is the world champion!
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The medals were presented by the Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Azerbaijan, Azer Aliyev.
In the men's under 60 kg category, Ahmad Yusifov reached the finals for the first time on home soil. He faced Kazakhstan's Sherzod Davlatov, also making his debut in the finals. Yusifov, trailing during the match, managed to turn the tide and claim gold, creating an emotional explosion in the arena.
The medals were presented by a member of the Executive Committee of the International Judo Federation, Timur Kemell.
The bright first day of the World Championships in Baku has come to an end. See you tomorrow in the Land of Fire!
