Nearly 300 young judoka from 19 nations are testing themselves, and one another, this weekend at the European Judo Hopes Tournament 2025 in Győr. Day one ended with Hungary leading the medal table in front of a delighted home crowd, capturing seven gold, three silver and five bronze medals. Bosnia and Herzegovina followed with three golds, four silvers and a bronze, while Montenegro impressed with a balanced haul of two golds, two silvers and two bronzes. In total, athletes from seven nations struck gold, and 16 different countries celebrated at least one medal, a true testament to the depth and diversity of young talent on display.
Beyond the medal table, the real story of the day was written on the tatami and in the smiles of the winners. With skill, courage, and the joy of discovery, the youth showed maturity beyond their years, celebrating victories not only with medals but with friendship and pride.
For Eross Dániel of Romania, winner of the U13/-55kg category, the day was one to remember: “My day was good, it was a lot of struggle, but somehow it worked out. I am happy to win the gold medal, especially because I got to know a lot more people today. My last fight against the German boy was very hard, he was strong and had good techniques. I also joined the seminar and learned a lot there too. What I love about judo is that I can defend myself, but also that it is so social.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ema Prljača, winner of the U13/-48kg category, could hardly contain her emotions: “I feel fantastic. I have trained for this for many years and judo is my favourite sport. I love everything about it, especially my friends, and of course, winning medals.”
Equally overjoyed was Silvia Kilačková of Slovakia, who claimed gold in the U15/-44kg category:
“I am super happy. I really like judo, it just fills me up. It is like my second home. I have been doing it since I was four years old and I really love it. Today my best moment was in the final, when I scored my second waza-ari and won the gold medal.”
Alongside the competition, the day also featured a technical seminar led by Aleksandar Kukolj, European Champion and World medallist, and Kazuhiko Tokuno, Kodokan Expert from Japan. The combination of high-level learning and spirited competition created an atmosphere of inspiration for all who took part.
The second and final day of the tournament begins at 11:00 CET. Fans and family can follow all the results and watch the action live online via the following link: JudoManager Portal
Author: Szandra Szogedi