The European Open in Sarajevo is part of a long tradition of high-level judo tournaments held in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Over the years, the nation has hosted events across every age group, all the way up to world-level competitions. Sarajevo, known for its warm hospitality, welcomes the European Open for the fifth time, marking the sixth edition of the European Open series this year.
The tournament has seen some great champions in the past, including World Champion Loic Pietri and local star Larisa Ceric, former world number one and world medallist. Ceric remains deeply involved in local judo, helping to organise events and inspire the next generation. She loves the sport and will no doubt be cheering for her friends and teammates, including the Samardzic sisters, Andjela (- 57kg) and Aleksandra (-70kg), who are both set to compete at their home European Open.
Of the 56 winners since the first edition in 2021, only Britain’s Emma Reid has managed to win the event twice. Could one of the Samardzic sisters be the next to achieve that feat? The men’s line-up for the home nation also looks promising for the host nation, with the host fielding judoka across nearly all categories, especially in the light and middleweight divisions.
Serbia brings one of the strongest delegations, followed by France with an impressive 24 athletes and Germany with 20 talented judoka. Among the headline names is Hungary’s Reka Pupp, double Olympian and always a strong contender in the -52kg category. Her coach, Akos Braun, is himself a former world champion, adding even more pedigree to the team. The Serbian women’s team also looks powerful, particularly in the heavyweight division with Milica Zabic among the favourites. From across the Atlantic, John Jayne represents the USA but is no stranger to European tatami, having previously fought for multiple nations. Competing at -90kg, he will aim for a place among the medallists.
Serbia could well climb the nation rankings in Sarajevo, although historically France has dominated with eight titles, evenly split between men and women. That record might be under threat, especially in the women’s field where Julie Weill Dit Morey is a medal contender the -52kg category. She also won the European Open in Tallinn. A potential final between Julie Weill Dit Morey and Pupp would be a highlight, if the draw keeps them apart.
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Author: Hans Van Essen