Heavyweights Bring the Hungary Grand Slam to a Spectacular Close
Budapest delivered a thrilling final day as Schimidt, Pavic, Pirelli, Hershko and Endovitskii struck gold. Pavic celebrated her first Grand Slam title, while the heavyweights brought three unforgettable days of judo at the Papp László Arena to a close.
By Euronews with IJF
Published on 14/09/2026 - 7:26 GMT+2
Day three of the Hungary Grand Slam saw fans pour into the Papp László Arena, with more chances to meet judo legends before another thrilling day of action on the tatami.
Brazil’s Guilherme SCHIMIDT, formerly an -81kg contender, now had his sights set on the -90kg title. SCHIMIDT struck to secure his third Grand Slam victory.
His medal was awarded by Minister of Interior of Hungary, H.E. Mr Gábor PÓSFAI.
At -78kg, Japan's Mao IZUMI was up against Petrunjela PAVIC of Croatia in Pavic’s debut Grand Slam final. A huge Obi-tori-gaeshi from the Croatian landed PAVIC her first ever Grand Slam gold medal.
IOC Member Mrs Aïcha GARAD ALI awarded the medals.
At -100Kg, Italy’s Gennaro PIRELLI, displayed some fantastic judo throughout the day. A well fought technical battle in the final secured him his second consecutive Grand Slam gold.
Member of the National Assembly of Hungary, Dr Krisztián KULCSÁR awarded the medals.
At +78KG, Raz HERSHKO, featuring in her 17th Grand Slam Final block, was up against France’s Celia CANCAN.
HERSHKO produced a breathtaking Harai Goshi, scoring ippon in style and securing her 7th Grand Slam Gold medal.
IOC Member, Ms Yael ARAD awarded the medals.
The +100Kg final saw a truly dominant performance from Valerii ENDOVITSKII.
Two yuko scores from ENDOVITSKII guaranteed his place on top of the podium and a 4th Grand Slam Gold.
President of the International Judo Federation, Mr Marius VIZER awarded the medals.
It’s been an incredible tournament, giving fans unforgettable moments and lifetime memories
We’ll see you next, in Baku for the World Championships.
