Author: Montenegrin Judo Federation
The opening day of the Podgorica Senior European Cup 2026 delivered a vibrant showcase of international judo as athletes from 26 nations stepped onto the tatami at the Podgorica Verde Complex on Saturday, 7 March. Seven weight categories were decided in a highly competitive field, with the Russian team dominating the lighter men’s divisions and ultimately securing the top place on the medal table with an impressive haul of three gold, three silver and seven bronze medals.
Russia’s momentum began in the men’s -60kg category where Nikita Anisimov claimed gold, before Levon Tumasiants added another title at -66kg following a compelling all-Russian final against Islam Babatov. The sequence was interrupted only in the -73kg category, where Kazakhstan’s Aibek Zhakashov produced a confident performance to defeat Tamerlan Kushkhov (RUS) in the final.
The women’s divisions offered their own highlights. Australia’s Saya Middleton delivered one of the most impressive displays of the day, capturing gold in the -63kg category with a composed victory over Slovakia’s Lenka Tomankova. Slovenia’s Nika Koren secured the -70kg title by overcoming Italy’s Matilde Tagliabue, while Russia’s Daria Rechkalova proved dominant in the -78kg final, defeating Croatia’s Karla Kulić.
The home crowd also had plenty to celebrate. Vedrana Praščević earned bronze in the -63kg category, while Andrijana Sutović fought her way to a strong fifth-place finish at -70 kg. In the +78kg category, Jovana Mrvaljević added another bronze medal for Montenegro, prompting loud celebrations inside the arena.
Throughout the day, the Podgorica Verde Complex buzzed with energy as local supporters rallied behind their athletes. Visiting delegations once again praised the quality of organisation, the professionalism of the host team and the warm hospitality that has helped establish Podgorica as one of the most respected stops on the European judo circuit. The federation’s reputation, reinforced by receiving the Best EJU Event of the Year 2025 award, was evident in every aspect of the event.
The competition continues on Sunday with the heavier weight categories: men’s -81kg, -90kg, -100kg and +100kg, alongside the women’s -48kg, -52kg and -57kg divisions. With the tone already set by an exciting opening day, the final stage promises further high-level contests and memorable moments.
The full gallery can be found via the following link. Live coverage is available on JudoTV.com.
Images: Filip Roganovic
Author: EJU Media