The Baku World Judo Championships 2026 have officially commenced in Azerbaijan, where athletes are competing for the prestigious red back patches. The opening day of the tournament featured high-stakes competition and the crowning of the first two world champions.
In the women's -48kg category, Italy’s Assunta Scutto reached her third consecutive world final after a morning of impressive performances. She faced Japan’s Wakana Koga, who entered the final with significant momentum, having previously secured both World bronze and silver medals. The final was a tightly contested affair, with both judoka remaining cautious. Ultimately, Koga seized a critical opportunity on the ground, maintaining her composure to decisively close the contest and claim her first World Championship gold. The medals for this division were awarded by Mr. Azer Aliyev, Secretary General of the Azerbaijan National Olympic Committee.
The men's -60kg final provided a dramatic highlight for the local crowd as Azerbaijan’s Ahmad Yusifov competed in his first-ever World final on home soil. His opponent, Kazakhstan’s Sherzod Davlatov, also made his first appearance in a World final after a composed and dangerous performance throughout the day. With the Baku audience providing passionate support, Yusifov overcame a score deficit to secure victory in the final moments. This comeback win marked a standout moment for the championships. The medal presentation for the -60kg category was conducted by International Judo Federation Executive Committee Member Mr. Timur Kemell.
The successful conclusion of the first day in Baku sets a high bar for the remainder of the tournament, which continues tomorrow in the host city.
In the final the two experienced judoka clashed. It was a tightly fought contest, with neither judoka giving much away, before KOGA seized her opportunity on the ground. Calm under pressure, she converted the opportunity decisively to bring the contest to an emphatic close. It was KOGA who walked away crowned the World Champion. A breakthrough moment for the Japanese star.
What an incredible first day here in Baku. Join us tomorrow in the land of fire.
