The Lima Judo Grand Prix drew to a close on Sunday with a final session that delivered drama, tactical battles and a historic first for Cyprus. Over three days, the Peruvian capital hosted athletes from across the globe, and the concluding weight categories produced a golden finish that will be remembered well beyond the tatami.
A Portuguese masterclass at -90kg
In the men's -90kg final, Rafael Macedo of Portugal faced Mihail Latisev. Macedo, who had already tasted Grand Prix success twice before, secured his third title with a beautifully executed waza-ari that flowed directly into an osaekomi hold. The referee signalled waza-ari-awasete-ippon, ending the contest in style. The medals were presented by Dr Zsolt Szövérfi, a member of the International Judo Federation's Medical Commission.
Niemeyer's breakthrough at -78kg
The women's -78kg final pitted Germany's Mathilda Sophie Niemeyer against the more experienced Fanny Estelle Posvite of France. Niemeyer, competing on the World Judo Tour for the first time at this level, threw Posvite with a clean technique and immediately transitioned into a hold down. The scoreboard showed a waza-ari and a yuko, enough to secure her maiden gold medal on the circuit. Yuri Alvear, a member of the IJF Sport Commission, awarded the medals.
All-Italian affair at -100kg
The -100kg category produced an all-Italian final, with Gennaro Pirelli and Daniele Accogli battling for supremacy. In a tactical contest that kept the crowd on edge, Pirelli emerged victorious, adding another Grand Prix title to his resume. The medals were presented by Louisa Agius Galea, a member of the IJF Executive Committee.
Souza's golden hold
Olympic champion Beatriz Souza of Brazil faced Asya Tavano in the +78kg final. Souza, who won gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics, demonstrated her dominance once again, using her signature groundwork to pin Tavano and claim another World Tour gold. Vladimir Barta, the IJF Head Sport Director, had the honour of presenting the medals.
Antoniou makes history for Cyprus
The final contest of the day, in the men's +100kg category, delivered the most emotional moment. Giannis Antoniou of Cyprus faced a tough opponent, but a massive counter-attack sent the arena into raptures. The ippon sealed not only his first Grand Prix gold but also Cyprus's first-ever title on the World Judo Tour. The achievement marks a milestone for the small Mediterranean nation, which has been steadily developing its judo programme. Carlos Zegarra, an IJF Vice President, presented the medals.
The tournament also had a proud moment for the host nation when a Peruvian judoka claimed a bronze medal on the opening day, a result that resonated with the local crowd. The Lima Grand Prix has now established itself as a key stop on the international circuit, and this year's edition showcased the depth of talent emerging from South America and beyond.
With the event concluded, attention now turns to the next challenges on the World Judo Tour. For the winners, the momentum from Lima could prove crucial as they build towards the world championships and, eventually, the next Olympic cycle. The performances in Peru underlined the sport's global reach, with European athletes playing a prominent role across the medal table.
For more from the tournament, see our coverage of day two's three first-time champions and the opening day's five debut winners.
