Gold medals are usually the stars of the show and yet, in Bratislava, during the final block of the -66kg category, a bronze medal gleamed brighter than ever. Its proud owner was Simas Polikevičius of Lithuania, and with it, he ended a two-decade wait for his nation. The last time Lithuania stood on a junior European podium was in 2005, when Egidius Zilinskas struck gold in the -100kg category.
Polikevičius’ day was built on quiet determination. Round after round, he moved with calm focus and humility, dispatching opponents with precision until the quarter-finals, where Alexis Renard (FRA), the 2024 junior European bronze medallist, halted his march. Undeterred, the 19-year-old fought through the repechage, earning his way to a bronze medal showdown with Tornike Gigauri (GEO). In a fierce “Georgian-style” battle, Polikevičius kept his composure and edged ahead, sealing an emotional victory. His reaction was understated, a simple, humbled celebration, while his opponent was left devastated.
“This medal means a lot to me,” Polikevičius said softly. “I think now more Lithuanian judoka will believe they can get medals after cadets. It’s not just a dream, it’s possible. I’m sorry for the Georgian guy, he was really good too. With this medal I want to thank my coaches, my friends, and my team. This bronze is for everyone.”
While Lithuania celebrated its long-awaited medal, Azerbaijan had its own reason to cheer. Mahammad Musayev stormed through the -66kg division with unmatched dominance. Not a single opponent scored against him until the final, where Renard briefly stunned him with a yuko. That spark only ignited Musayev further. He shifted into high gear, lifting and throwing Renard repeatedly until he sealed the victory with a thunderous ippon just 12 seconds from the end of the clear contest time.
“I was going to win this championship,” Musayev said with a fiery certainty. “Last year, I got injured just before the junior Europeans and I couldn’t compete. Today was redemption, and to defeat the French judoka who beat me before, it makes this gold even more special.” With visible relief, he added, “I am very happy. I will celebrate with my family, especially my mom. Then, my focus goes to the world championships, to feel this again.”
Two medals, two stories: one of redemption, one of history. Bratislava proved that in judo, bronze can shine as bright as gold.
Author: Szandra Szogedi