The Papp László Arena in Budapest provided a fitting stage for the closing day of the Hungary Grand Slam, as judo's heavyweights delivered a series of compelling finals. A packed crowd witnessed five gold-medal bouts that capped three days of high-level competition on the World Judo Tour.
Schimidt makes light work of the -90kg field
Brazil's Guilherme Schimidt, who previously competed at -81kg, stepped up to the -90kg category and made an immediate impact. He secured his third Grand Slam victory with a composed performance, demonstrating that his move up in weight has not diminished his technical edge. Hungary's Minister of Interior, Gábor Pósfai, presented the medals.
Pavic's breakthrough at -78kg
The -78kg final was a landmark occasion for Croatia's Petrunjela Pavic, who reached her first Grand Slam final. Facing Japan's Mao Izumi, Pavic produced a spectacular obi-tori-gaeshi that earned her a well-deserved gold medal. The victory marked a significant milestone in her career, and IOC member Aïcha Garad Ali was on hand to award the medals.
Pirelli retains -100kg crown
Italy's Gennaro Pirelli continued his impressive run of form, claiming his second consecutive Grand Slam gold in the -100kg category. His final was a tactical battle, but Pirelli's superior technique and patience saw him through. Dr Krisztián Kulcsár, a member of the Hungarian National Assembly, presented the medals.
Hershko's ippon seals +78kg glory
Israel's Raz Hershko, competing in her 17th Grand Slam final block, faced France's Celia Cancan in the +78kg showdown. Hershko delivered a breathtaking harai goshi that scored ippon, securing her seventh Grand Slam gold medal. The performance was a highlight of the day, and IOC member Yael Arad awarded the medals.
Endovitskii dominates +100kg
In the final bout of the day, Valerii Endovitskii of Ukraine produced a dominant display in the +100kg category. Two yuko scores were enough to guarantee his place at the top of the podium, earning him a fourth Grand Slam gold. International Judo Federation President Marius Vizer presented the medals.
The Hungary Grand Slam has become a staple of the judo calendar, and this year's edition was no exception. The event also served as a reminder of the sport's deep roots in Central Europe, with Budapest hosting the tour opener earlier in the season. For many athletes, the tournament is a key step on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Beyond the tatami, the event highlighted Budapest's capacity to host major international sporting gatherings. The city's infrastructure and enthusiastic crowds have made it a favorite stop on the World Judo Tour, and the atmosphere at the Papp László Arena was electric throughout the three days.
As the heavyweights took center stage, the finals delivered both drama and technical excellence. From Pavic's breakthrough to Hershko's ippon, the closing day offered a fitting conclusion to a tournament that showcased the depth of talent in European and global judo.
