The World Judo Championships 2025 has concluded, and with that 20 nations have captured reward for their efforts. Out of the 20, 12 of those are European nations and for some it was a performance of a lifetime.
Japan topped the leader board however they were followed up by the IJF team, thanks to three gold medals from Timur ARBUZOV (-81kg), Matvey KANIKOVSKIY (-100kg) and Inal TASOEV (+100kg). Italy came in third with astounding gold medals from Assunta SCUTTO (-48kg) and Olympic Champion, Alice BELLANDI (-78kg).
A historic gold was taken by Eteri LIPARTELIANI of Georgia in the -57kg category, the first ever female World Champion for her country and she did it in style, and Joan-Benjamin GABA added his name to the French history books, the master of major championships took gold in the -73kg category.
On the final day of the event, the Mixed Teams felt like an overthrow! With the world used to seeing a France – Japan battle for gold, it was a shock that France didn’t manage to find a place on the podium, and Japan were forced to settle for bronze. Instead, Georgia took on Republic of Korea for the title, no matter the victor, it would be the first time in history it would not be a Japan win.
In the end it was a 4-2 win for Team Georgia, again, giving a historic performance!
For the home nation, the biggest celebrations were had on day two as the crowd celebrated a world bronze medal from GYERTYAS Roza in the -52kg category. It was a wonderfully emotional performance and the win shared by so many including her parents.
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen