Author: Žiga Košec
There are days in judo when dominance tells the story and then there are days like this. The second and final day of the Ljubljana European Open 2026 delivered a powerful reminder of the sport’s global heartbeat: seven categories, seven champions, seven different national anthems. Not once was the same flag raised twice for gold. In a world-class field packed with experience, youth and resilience, diversity reigned supreme.
Comeback Gold
Spain struck first through Jana Cid Balcells, who captured the -48kg title in a category rich with talent. For Cid Balcells, the medal meant far more than podium glory.
“This victory means a lot to me because I have just returned to competition after a long-term injury, so it is really special to come back with a win. The competition was tough with many strong athletes, so I had to stay focused until the very end. I’m truly happy to have won.”
Her smile said as much as her words: this was not just a victory, it was a statement of resilience.
Italian Revenge
Italy, the most successful nation of this year’s tournament, added another gold in the -52kg category through Ilaria Finestrone. Last year’s bronze medallist climbed two steps higher this time, defeating France’s Alyssia Poulange in the final. The final was as emotional as it was physical.
“In the final I was very tired, almost in tears but I really wanted the gold medal, so I gave everything I had. I had fought Poulange before and lost, so this was sweet revenge. I competed here last year and finished third, so I am happy to return and win.”
Having lost twice previously to her opponent, Finestrone’s triumph felt earned in every sense.
Brazilian Brilliance and Slovenian Heart
The largest women’s category, -57kg, saw Brazil’s Sarah Souza take gold. Türkiye’s Aysenur Budak claimed silver, while the Netherlands’ Pleuni Cornelisse and Slovenia’s Nika Tomc shared bronze. For Tomc, competing on home soil carried a different weight.
“Of course I am happy with the medal, although it can always be better. I am pleased with the result at a home event. It is different from other competitions because the fans, relatives and friends come to support you and give you extra energy.”
The 19-year-old had already impressed by winning the Junior European Cup in Sarajevo in a higher weight category just a week earlier. Her bronze in Ljubljana was forged through mental strength.
“In the semifinal I simply didn’t do what I should have. In the bronze medal match I was already in a losing position but I kept believing I could turn it around. In my head I was convinced I wouldn’t give up, that I could escape and I managed to do it.”
Receiving her medal from Olympic champion Tina Trstenjak made the moment even more special.
Power and Precision
Slovakia celebrated gold in -100kg thanks to Peter Zilka, who overcame Egypt’s Omar Elramly in the final. Zilka’s approach was refreshingly simple:
“I woke up after a very good night’s sleep, so the day started well and then I went match by match. The hardest one, as always for me, was the first. Once I found my rhythm, everything flowed.”
For the experienced Slovak, Ljubljana now holds a special place in his career, the city where he captured his first Continental Open gold.
Experience Prevails
The heavyweight title went to Ukraine’s Yakiv Khammo, who defeated Croatia’s Mikita Sviryd in the final. For Khammo, a two-time World Championship bronze medallist, this victory marked a return.
“I am very happy with this medal because I haven’t competed for a long time due to injuries, so I am glad to be back on the right path. The toughest match was definitely the final against Mikita, because he is my friend and we know each other very well, but in the end experience made the difference.”
Over two days, Ljubljana once again demonstrated why it remains a cornerstone of the European judo calendar. Packed stands, flawless organisation and relentless intensity on the tatami created an atmosphere worthy of the international field it hosted. Seven nations left with gold on day two. Countless stories left with meaning. In the Slovenian capital, judo did what it does best: unite the world, one contest at a time.
Author: EJU Media