Ukraine clinched the gold medal at the 29th edition of the Monaco International Judo Tournament, held on Sunday, December 8, 2024. After securing silver in 2022 and bronze in 2023, the Ukrainian team completed their medal collection by defeating Judo Nice Métropole in the final with a convincing 5-2 victory.
The final was a rematch of an earlier group-stage encounter, where Nice edged out Ukraine 4-3. However, led by 2023 European vice-champion Dilshot Khalmatov (-60kg), Ukraine turned the tables. Khalmatov, who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer, dominated throughout the tournament, defeating Yoan Roussel by Ippon. Teammates Nykta Holobrodko and Saïd-Magomed Khalidov followed suit, with the latter overcoming Maxime Gobert, a three-time Grand Slam medalist. Vladyslav Kolobov sealed Ukraine’s triumph by defeating French national champion Luca Otmane in the -81kg category.
In a spirited conclusion, Tizie Gnamien (-90kg) and Tanou Keita (-100kg) secured victories for Nice in their final bouts, thrilling the crowd at the Gaston-Médecin arena. Gnamien’s marathon win over Stanislav Gunchenko and Keita’s stunning Ippon against Anton Savytskiy, the 2024 Zagreb Grand Prix champion, showcased their resilience and skill.
Spain Takes Bronze
Spain claimed the third spot on the podium, defeating Belgium in the bronze medal match. The Spanish team, featuring a blend of rising talents and seasoned judokas like Iñaki Baztan (-81kg), showcased their prowess against a strong Belgian squad led by former international René Goos.
Legendary Judoka Gévrise Emane in Attendance
Triple world champion Gévrise Emane graced the event, receiving a warm ovation from the Monaco crowd. Emane, also a London 2012 Olympic bronze medalist and vice president of the French Judo Federation, marked the occasion by signing a partnership agreement with Monaco’s Judo Federation president Sophie Vincent. The ceremony celebrated 50 years of the Monégasque Judo Federation and the 75th anniversary of the Judo Club of Monaco.
A Showcase of Monaco’s Judo Spirit
Amid a nostalgic historical video and heartfelt tributes, dignitaries, including Jacques Pastor and Yvette Lambin-Berti, joined Emane in presenting awards to the competitors. Young judokas from Monaco’s club participated in the celebrations, embodying the tournament’s values of sportsmanship and unity.
Monaco’s national team, led by François Bick, displayed commendable performances in the group stage, with notable efforts from Enzo Toriti (-73kg) and Lucas Berthezene (+100kg). Despite tough opposition from Venelles, Spain, and ACBB, the Monégasque judokas held their own, earning admiration for their determination.
The tournament also hosted teams from Portugal, Italy, Lithuania, and several top French clubs, further cementing its reputation as a premier event in the international judo calendar.
As the curtains closed on the 29th edition, the Monaco Judo Federation expressed eagerness to continue its tradition of excellence by welcoming the world’s judo elite for the landmark 30th tournament next year.
