Spain's Tsunoda Wins First World Judo Gold in Baku

Two judokas reached career-defining moments on Day 5 of the World Judo Championships in Baku, proving that persistence and precision pay off on judo's biggest stage.

Spain's Ai Tsunoda Roustant stepped onto the mat for her first senior world championship final in the 70kg category. The 22-year-old had already conquered the cadet and junior divisions, but this was different: Olympic silver medalist Michaela Polleres stood across from her, armed with years of experience on the world's toughest stages.

The final stretched into golden score, where a single mistake could end everything. Tsunoda Roustant kept her composure, staying tactical and focused until she found her opening and secured the win.

"It's always amazing to go to a final at a World Championships," Tsunoda Roustant said after claiming her red backpatch, the symbol of world champion status. "This type of show, how they do it, how they do everything is spectacular."

In the 90kg category, Japan's Sanshiro Murao faced his own high-stakes rematch. He met fellow Japanese judoka Goki Tajima in the final, recreating their showdown from the previous year's championship. Both athletes had already tasted world championship glory, making this an all-or-nothing battle for dominance.

Murao delivered a massive ippon that brought the crowd to their feet and sealed his second consecutive world title. The victory came after he'd already defeated double Olympic champion Bekauri earlier in the competition, proving he could handle the pressure when it counted most.

"My goal coming into this competition was to establish myself as the undisputed champion of the 90kg category," Murao explained. "Winning here and taking the title for a second year in a row feels like I've been able to prove that."

Why This Inspires

Both champions showed that the path to greatness looks different for everyone. Tsunoda Roustant waited years to break through at the senior level, building her skills patiently through youth competitions. Murao took the bolder route, defending his title against a former champion who knew exactly what it took to win.

Their victories remind us that whether you're chasing your first big win or fighting to stay on top, success comes down to the same things: preparation, focus, and believing in yourself when everything's on the line.

Two athletes, two different journeys, one unforgettable night in Baku.