Japan Wins Sixth Gold Medal in Thrilling Finale at Last Day of World Judo Championships
Amid a large audience, Japan managed to claim their sixth gold medal after an epic battle against France, who came in second place, in the final of the mixed team event on the eighth day of the World Judo Championship in Doha 2023, held at the Ali bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena.
In the first match between the two teams in the under 73 kg weight category, former world champion Gaba defeated Soichi Hashimoto in just 20 seconds. Then, Margaux Pinot defeated Saki Niizoe, who had won the gold medal a few days earlier. Goki Tajima then turned the score in favor of the Japanese. After the teams tied 3-3, the under 70 kg weight category was chosen to settle the match, and Pinot and Niizoe had to return for a round that lasted more than six minutes. Although Pinot was the more aggressive fighter, three attacking mistakes Japan emerged victorious.
As a result, Japan's team was crowned the overall winner of the World Judo Championship - Doha 2023 with a total of five individual gold medals, one mixed team gold medal, two silver medals, and four bronze medals. France finished in second place with a total of seven medals, two gold, three silver, and two bronze. Georgia's team came in third place with two gold, one silver, and one bronze.
Abdulhadi Almarri, Marketing, Communication, Opening & Closing Ceremonies Committee Director commented on the outstanding success of the event, “As we close the World Judo Championships - Doha 2023, we would like to congratulate the Japanese team on winning the best team in the championship and qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. We also congratulate all participating teams in both individual and mixed team events. I would like to thank all those involved in this championship, from organizers, sponsors, volunteers, coaches, and officials, whose combined efforts have brought this global celebration of Judo to life.”
Almarri added: “In addition to those in Qatar, the Championships saw fans travel from all corners of the globe, their passionate support adding a layer of vibrancy to the event. Their support not only emphasizes the universal appeal of Judo but also underscores our commitment to advancing this sport on a local, regional, and global stage.”
The World Judo Championships began on May 7th with the participation of more than 650 athletes from 99 countries, and concluded today with a celebratory atmosphere that includes organizers, sponsors, and volunteers.
