The Dushanbe Grand Slam 2026 wrapped up with a spectacular final day of heavyweight judo, as athletes from across Europe and beyond delivered compelling performances in Tajikistan's capital. The Kasri Tennis complex was packed with an electric crowd, creating a party atmosphere that has become a hallmark of this tournament.
European Judokas Shine in Heavyweight Categories
In the women's +78 kg division, Italy's Asya Tavano successfully defended her title from last year, showcasing her technical prowess with a deft O-uchi-gari against China's Jinesinuer Ayiman. Tavano's victory underscores Italy's growing strength in women's heavyweight judo, a discipline where European athletes have traditionally excelled.
The men's +100 kg category saw Poland's Jakub Sordyl claim his first World Tour gold medal. The 22-year-old turned and held Russia's Bislan Katamardov, demonstrating the kind of composure that marks a rising star. Sordyl's win adds to a strong Polish judo tradition, which has produced Olympic and world champions in recent decades.
In the -78 kg class, Ukraine-born Yelyzaveta Lytvynenko, now competing for the United Arab Emirates, produced a huge O-goshi for ippon in the final. The 22-year-old's experience proved decisive, earning her a first Grand Slam gold. Lytvynenko's journey from Ukraine to the UAE reflects the increasingly international nature of elite judo.
The -100 kg final saw China's Fuchun Huang become the first Chinese man to win a World Tour gold medal in nine years, stunning Adam Sangariev with a superb O-uchi-gari. Huang's victory was a rare bright spot for Chinese judo on the international stage.
Host Nation Success and Ceremonial Highlights
Tajikistan's judo federation president, Ismoil Mahmadzoir, presented medals alongside other dignitaries, including World Champion and double Olympic silver medallist Neil Adams. The host nation celebrated three gold medals from its top stars, a testament to the country's investment in the sport.
The tournament's success comes amid broader European sporting developments, such as the recent Champions League semifinal thriller between PSG and Bayern, which highlighted the continent's passion for competitive sports. Meanwhile, discussions around NATO's legal framework continue to shape security debates across Europe, though judo remains a unifying force.
As the judo family departs Dushanbe, the tournament has once again demonstrated the sport's ability to bring together athletes from diverse backgrounds. For European judokas like Tavano and Sordyl, the event provided valuable ranking points and momentum ahead of future championships.
