The 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam kicked off with thrilling judo matches, featuring multiple gold medal victories for Japanese women and standout performances from local favorites. The event showcased cultural richness and excitement, underscoring Uzbekistan’s developing prowess in the sport. Day one was marked by intense competition, culminating in a vibrant atmosphere filled with dedicated fans.
The 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam commenced with an exhilarating display of judo, highlighting particularly stellar performances from female Japanese athletes who achieved multiple gold medals in the competition. The event took place at the Yunusabad Sport Complex, where passionate fans gathered to celebrate a sport invigorated by the recent Olympic success of Diyora Keldiyorova.
The opening ceremony was an impressive cultural showcase, officially inaugurated by Mr. Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation, alongside Uzbekistan’s Sports Minister, Dr. Adkham Ikramov. The excitement was palpable as spectators anticipated the thrilling matches to come.
In the -48kg weight category, MIYAKI Kano secured a significant victory over her compatriot YOSHIOKA Hikari in an all-Japan final. This tactical win set a positive tone for the Japanese women’s team, with IJF President Mr. Marius Vizer presenting the medals.
Ayub Bliev powered through his match in the -60kg category, demonstrating incredible speed to overcome Azerbaijan’s Turan BAYRAMOV. His outstanding performance culminated in a gold medal, awarded by Icona Capital’s CEO, Mr. Max-Hervé George.
In the -52kg division, Japan’s TSUBONE Nanako showcased her skill against Spain’s Ayumi Leiva Sanchez. Utilizing a clever sacrifice throw maneuver, Tsubone captured her first-ever Grand Slam gold medal, receiving her accolade from Uzbekistan Sports Minister Dr. Adkham Ikramov. Tsubone shared her joy, stating, “I never fought her before, but I studied her on video and was prepared, I’m very happy, I want to tell that to the people who cheered for me.”
Ramazan Abdulaev created a stirring moment in the -66kg category by besting home favorite Bekmurodov with remarkable groundwork, securing the gold medal awarded by OCA Vice President, Mr. Otabek Umarov.
The final match of the day featured another all-Japan showdown in the -57kg category, where OMORI Akari delivered a beautiful technique to triumph over ONO Moa, concluding the day on a high note. The gold medal was presented by Harvest Group CEO, Mr. Almaz Alsenov.
Uzbekistan’s local judo team displayed exceptional talent, generating immense enthusiasm among fans who celebrated numerous home-grown victories. This fervor, paired with the dedicated performances of Uzbek judoka, solidifies the nation’s rising status in the global judo arena. Spectators eagerly await the next day of competition, promising more excitement and talent on display.
The opening day of the 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam showcased a vibrant blend of local passion and global talent in women’s judo, particularly with Japan’s impressive clean sweep of golds. Star performances by Ayub Bliev and Ramazan Abdulaev exemplified the dynamic spirit of the tournament. Uzbekistan’s emerging strength in the judo community was evident as the local audience rallied behind their athletes, setting an electrifying atmosphere for subsequent days of competition.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
