Anna-Maria Wagner: Gold in the weight category -78 kg
The new World Champion in the category -78 kg is Anna-Maria Wagner of Germany. The German can be thrilled to have earned the red back patch for the second time in her career, after a terrific performance in Abu Dhabi. Wagner has been in a close run for the Olympic spot against German team mate, Alina Böhm, but at this year’s World Championships, Wagner left no doubt, to whom the Olympic spot belongs. Wagner has been on great form all year and has captured no less than four Grand Slam medals, the Vice European title and now, the World title. A track record like this speaks for itself and Wagner is without a doubt one of the strongest contenders to capture the Olympic title in Paris. We are proud of you, Anna!
Tara Babulfath: Bronze in the weight category -48 kg
Teenage phenomen Tara Babulfath made history for Sweden once again, as she captured a bronze medal in the -48 kg category. Babulfath won two consecutive Cadet World medals in 2022 and 2023 and this year, the only 18 years old Babulfath, could celebrate her first Senior World medal and become only the second female athlete in the history of Swedish Judo, to win medal at the Senior World Championships. This outstanding performance will secure Babulfath her Olympic ticket to Paris - Will she be able to become the first Swedish Olympic medalist in judo? Congratulations, Tara!
Lukas Krpalek: 5th place in the weight category +100 kg
In the men’s heavy weight division, Lukas Krpalek of Czech Republic ended the day with a good 5th place. This was only Krpalek’s second appearance this year, after winning a gold medal at the Grand Prix in Linz, back in March. Krpalek was able to make it all the way to the semi final but in the end of the day, narrowly missed out on a spot at the podium. However, for the Czech legend, the most important event still lies ahead. The double Olympic Champion, will be looking to capture his third consecutive Olympic title, when the Paris Olympic Games, begins in a little more than two months. We are proud to stand behind you, Lukas!
Reka Pupp: 5th place in the weight category -52 kg
Hungary’s Reka Pupp came close to a podium finish but narrowly missed out on a medal and ended her day with a 5th place. A strong result for the Hungarian lightweight, who could be happy about having made it to the final block of the World Championships for the second year in a row. However, Pupp is still looking to secure the medal and will be looking to swop that 5th place for a spot at the podium at the Olympic Games in Paris. We believe in you, Reka!
Congratulations to our athletes! We are proud to stand behind you and be part of each of your Olympic dreams. Next stop: the Olympic Games in Paris.
