Judo Champions Deliver Final-Second Wins in Tbilisi

When Turkish judoka Vedat Albayrak secured his gold medal in the final seconds of competition, the roar from the Tbilisi crowd said it all. The 2026 Tbilisi Grand Slam delivered heart-stopping action and inspiring victories that reminded everyone why sports bring the world together.

Day 2 at Tbilisi Arena saw athletes from across the globe compete for glory. Japan's Haruka Kaju, the current world champion, faced off against former champion Joanne Van Lieshout of the Netherlands in the 63kg final.

Kaju controlled the match from start to finish, claiming gold with skill and precision. But what stuck with her most was the crowd's energy.

"The Georgian judo fans were so passionate, and even though I'm not from Georgia, I felt their incredible support," Kaju said after her win. "It made it easier to compete. It was fun."

Italy's Leonardo Valeriani had his breakthrough moment in the 73kg category. After dominating throughout the day with spectacular throws, he took a different approach in the final against Finland's Valtteri Olin.

Valeriani shifted to ground fighting and forced a submission, winning his first-ever Grand Slam gold. His joy was unmistakable as he soaked in the atmosphere of a city he'd grown to love.

Olympic bronze medalist Madina Taimazova returned to form in the 70kg division. Her perfectly timed attack earned her fourth Grand Slam gold, proof that champions know how to deliver when it matters most.

Why This Inspires

These victories show what happens when talent meets opportunity on the world stage. Albayrak's last-second gold repeated his victory from the previous year, demonstrating the power of persistence and hometown-style support even in a foreign country.

The Georgian fans got their own moment when Giorgi Loladze secured bronze in the 73kg category with one of the day's most spectacular throws. The arena erupted as their local hero found the podium, turning the competition into a celebration.

From Valeriani's first major title to Kaju's dominant performance to Albayrak's thrilling finish, Day 2 proved that dedication and split-second decisions can change everything. Athletes who've spent years perfecting their craft found validation, while newcomers announced themselves on the international stage.

The tournament continues with the heavyweight divisions, where more dreams will be realized and more champions crowned in front of passionate fans who remind us that sports transcend borders and bring out the best in human achievement.