Vukovic Outlasts Hershko for First Grand Slam Gold

Helena Vukovic delivered a composed +78 kg performance to claim her first Grand Slam gold medal in Abu Dhabi. The Croatian judoka overcame Israel’s Raz Hershko, a world and Olympic medallist who had entered the final as the favourite.

Hershko had progressed to the final with confidence, using her determined approach and rapid Seoi-otoshi attacks to unsettle opponents. Vukovic, however, arrived with a clear plan and refused to let the contest follow the expected script.

In the final, Vukovic’s gripping work was central. She neutralised Hershko’s familiar attacking patterns and made it difficult for the Israeli judoka to establish her usual rhythm. Hershko adjusted by adding Ashi-waza to her attacks and came close to taking the lead with around a minute remaining.

Vukovic escaped that danger by a narrow margin, keeping the score level and sending the contest into golden score. The extra time brought a shift in momentum. Vukovic increased the pace, attacked more often and forced Hershko into penalties. When Hershko received her third Shido, the final was over.

Vukovic’s patient tactical approach turned golden score into her defining moment.

The result gave Hershko silver, while Vukovic celebrated a breakthrough victory over an opponent she described as amazing. The Croatian said the gold lifted a huge weight from her shoulders as Olympic qualification begins, adding that she was looking forward to competing next in Zagreb in front of a supportive home crowd.

Italy also enjoyed a strong finish in the category, collecting both bronze medals. Asya Tavano defeated Brazil’s Giovanna Santos after resisting an attack and moving directly into Osaekomi, holding Santos for the full 20 seconds.

Erica Simonetti took the other bronze against Madina Kaisinova of Azerbaijan. Simonetti started at a high pace and scored twice, with her first Yuko coming from a well-placed Seoi-otoshi. She then defended her advantage through the remaining time to secure a World Judo Tour medal.

Vukovic stood on top of the +78 kg podium ahead of Hershko, with Tavano and Simonetti sharing bronze. For Croatia, it was a major gold-medal moment built on disciplined gripping, resilience under pressure and a decisive golden score surge.

Source: IJF.org

Image source: IJF / International Judo Federation