On the final day of the 2026 Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam, the heavyweights took centre stage in Astana. The event has delivered two days of non-stop action, with the crowd creating an electric atmosphere that has kept everyone engaged throughout.
At -90kg, Guilherme SCHIMIDT of Brazil faced Boris RUTOVIC of Serbia. With just 20 seconds left on the clock, RUTOVIC scored the only yuko of the contest, securing a gold medal in only his second grand slam appearance. The moment was celebrated by International Judo Federation Head Referee Director, Mr Armen BAGDASAROV, who was on hand to award the medals.
At -78kg, German athletes Anna Monta OLEK and Alina BOEHM went head-to-head. In a tight competition, OLEK narrowly edged out her compatriot on penalties. Reflecting on the experience, she said:
“I really like it here, because the people are here from the beginning, not just for the final block, and it’s a very good crowd. I also like little children outside, they all want to have your badge and I just like that people like Judo here.”
She was awarded her medal by International Judo Federation Education & Coaching Director, Mr Mohammed MERIDJA.
At -100kg, Kazakhstan’s Marat BAIKAMUROV faced Moldova’s Vadim GHIMBOVSCHI. To the delight of the home crowd, BAIKAMUROV opened with an early yuko and maintained control throughout the match, securing gold in front of his supporters.
“I really, really, really want to thank the support of my Kazakhstan people, and I am really glad that I am going to sing our national anthem,” he said after the match.
The medal was presented by Olympic Silver Medallist, Dr Askhat ZHITKEYEV.
At +78kg, Kazakhstan’s Kamila BERLIKASH competed against Elis STARTSEVA. A powerful arm lock secured an ippon for STARTSEVA, marking her first grand slam gold medal. The awards were given by International Judo Federation Referee Director, Mr Raul CAMACHO PEREZ.
In the +100kg category, top seed Inal TASOEV faced Ushangi KOKAURI. TASOEV claimed victory with a yuko score, adding his 11th Grand Slam Gold medal to his impressive list of achievements. The ceremony was conducted by International Judo Federation Head Sport Director, Mr Vladimir BARTA.
Kazakhstan had a successful final day, securing four medals and finishing in third place on the medal table. The event has been a showcase of intense competition, memorable moments, and passionate fan support.
Over three days, the tournament delivered non-stop drama, explosive judo, and unforgettable performances. The world tour will return in one month’s time in Ulaanbaatar, where fans can look forward to another exciting chapter of international judo.
