Haruka Kaju’s Baku Final Seals Another Global Title

Haruka Kaju (JPN) captured her second world title in the -63 kg category in Baku, overcoming Kerem Primo (ISR) in the final. Primo’s run to her first senior world final block was one of the standout stories of the day.

The 21-year-old Israeli arrived in outstanding form, having already collected two World Judo Tour medals and strong junior results. In the morning session, she defeated world medallists Szymanska (POL) and Enkhriilen Lkhagvatogoo (MGL) to earn her place against the previously undefeated Kaju.

Primo began the final with positive gripping and a clear plan, but Kaju quickly showed her strength. The Japanese judoka scored with Seoi-otoshi for a Yuko before moving into a hold. Primo escaped after nine seconds, denying what looked set to be a very early finish.

Kaju remained in control in ne-waza, though, finding another position to pin Primo. This time, there was no escape, and Kaju secured the victory to become a double world champion.

Primo’s silver followed a standout run through the morning session.

Kaju said her focus in Baku was on taking each contest as it came while continuing to attack rather than becoming defensive. She described the championships as an important step on the road to the Los Angeles Olympic Games.

European judoka also delivered one of the day’s most dramatic contests in the bronze medal match between Renata Zachova (CZE) and Anna Kriza (HUN). Zachova opened with a Tani-otoshi for Waza-ari after just 20 seconds, but Kriza replied almost immediately with a powerful hip throw.

Zachova regained the lead with O-soto-gari for a Yuko, only for Kriza to level the contest again with Uchi-mata. With two scores each, the contest moved into golden score, where both athletes knew a single successful attack could decide the medal.

After just over a minute of extra time, Kriza attacked at the hip again. Zachova was ready for the attempt, countered it and finally claimed her first world medal. Czech judo star Lukas Krpalek applauded from the stands as Zachova took bronze.

In the other bronze medal contest, Enkhriilen Lkhagvatogoo (MGL) defeated Joanne Van Lieshout (NED). The close contest remained scoreless until the final minute of normal time, when Lkhagvatogoo used quick footwork to throw Van Lieshout for a Yuko and secure her third senior world bronze medal.

Kaju finished with gold, Primo with silver, while Zachova and Lkhagvatogoo completed the -63 kg podium.

Source: IJF.org

Image source: IJF / International Judo Federation