2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam: Japanese Women Sweep Golds in Dazzling Opener
The 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam featured an exciting start, with Japanese women achieving multiple golds and local athletes like Ayub Bliev excelling. The opening ceremony celebrated local culture, with notable figures in attendance. Fans enjoyed intense matches, setting an optimistic tone for the remainder of the tournament.
The 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam commenced in the Yunusabad Sport Complex, drawing an enthusiastic audience eager to witness elite judo. The event’s excitement was heightened by Olympic champion Diyora Keldiyorova’s participation in a culturally rich opening ceremony. Prominent figures such as Mr. Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation, and Dr. Adkham Ikramov, Uzbekistan’s Sports Minister, officiated the festivities.
Japanese judokas excelled on the first day, securing multiple gold medals. MIYAKI Kano triumphed in the -48 kg category, defeating compatriot YOSHIOKA Hikari, marking a decisive victory that set the tone for Japan’s female team. IJF President Mr. Marius Vizer presented the medals to the athletes during the ceremony.
In the -60 kg division, Ayub BLIEV delivered a lightning-fast performance against Azerbaijan’s Turan BAYRAMOV, showcasing impressive skill and speed. His victory earned him the gold medal, which Mr. Max-Hervé George, CEO of Icona Capital, presented to him.
The -52 kg match saw Japan’s TSUBONE Nanako face Spain’s Ayumi LEIVA SANCHEZ. TSUBONE demonstrated remarkable strategy, sacrificing her weight to execute a successful throw, securing her first Grand Slam gold medal. Dr. Adkham Ikramov awarded her the medal, acknowledging her significant achievement. TSUBONE expressed her gratitude, 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.”
In the -66 kg category, Ramazan Abdulaev performed exceptionally, defeating local favorite Bekmurodov with an impressive groundwork technique to claim the gold. The medals were awarded by OCA Vice President, Mr. Otabek Umarov. Finally, in another All Japan final, OMORI Akari showcased beautiful technique against ONO Moa, concluding the day with her own victory, acknowledged by Mr. Almaz Alsenov, CEO of Harvest Group.
The spirited atmosphere was enhanced by the local team’s strong performance, with multiple medals igniting enthusiasm among the fans. This rich display of judo talent illustrates Uzbekistan’s rising status as a prominent judo nation. Day two promises further excitement as the tournament continues.
The 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam opened to a vibrant celebration of judo, highlighted by Japan’s dominance in the women’s categories and notable performances from local athletes. The event not only showcased impressive judo skills but also celebrated Uzbekistan’s growing reputation in the sport. The enthusiastic participation of fans and local competitors sets a promising expectation for the next days of competition.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
