Manuel Lombardo Triumphs in Men's -73 kg Judo Elimination Round

On July 29, 2024, at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, the Men's -73 kg Elimination Round of 16 showcased a riveting clash between Italy's Manuel Lombardo and Thailand's Masayuki Terada. Lombardo, ranked 4th in the world, demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy as he faced Terada, who held the 62nd position in the global ranking.

The match commenced with both athletes displaying a cautious approach, seeking opportunities to gain the upper hand. However, it was Lombardo who made the first significant move, successfully executing the O-goshi technique at the 3:04 mark, earning him a Waza-ari score.

As the match progressed, Terada struggled to mount an effective counterattack, resulting in two penalties against him in the first two minutes of the bout. Lombardo maintained control, showcasing his experience and composure under pressure. The match concluded with Lombardo securing a decisive victory, advancing him to the quarter-finals with a final score of 1-0.

Referee Raul Camacho Perez from Spain officiated the contest, ensuring that the rules were upheld while the athletes competed fiercely. With this win, Lombardo not only progresses in the tournament but also reinforces Italy's strong presence in the judo discipline at the Paris 2024 Olympics.