Rafael Macedo Triumphs Over Alex Cret in Judo Men's -90 kg Elimination Round

On July 31, 2024, the Judo Men's -90 kg Elimination Round of 16 took place at the prestigious Champs-de-Mars Arena, where athletes displayed remarkable skills and tenacity in their pursuit of Olympic glory. In a gripping match, Brazil's Rafael Macedo emerged victorious against Romania's Alex Cret, securing a place in the quarter-finals.

The bout commenced with a fierce exchange of techniques as both competitors aimed to assert dominance on the mat. Macedo, ranked 11th in the world, showcased his agility and strength, weighing in at 89.6 kg. Cret, on the other hand, despite being ranked 28th and weighing slightly less at 89.4 kg, fought valiantly but ultimately faced defeat.

Macedo's strategy proved effective as he executed a series of powerful moves, culminating in an Ippon at 6:33 minutes into the match, earning him a decisive victory. Notably, his execution of the Ude-hishigi-juji-gatame technique was a highlight of the contest, demonstrating his skill and composure under pressure.

Throughout the match, Cret faced challenges, including two penalties that hindered his performance. Despite the loss, Cret's journey to this point has been commendable, with a notable second-place finish at the Antalya Grand Slam 2023. The match concluded with Macedo advancing to the quarter-finals, where he aims to continue his pursuit of Olympic success.

The event was officiated by Raul Camacho Perez from Spain, ensuring the competition adhered to the highest standards of fairness and sportsmanship. The thrilling atmosphere at the Champs-de-Mars Arena echoed the spirit of the Olympics, showcasing the dedication and passion of these elite athletes.

As the Olympic Games progress, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate more exhilarating bouts in Judo and other disciplines, celebrating the remarkable talent and determination displayed by competitors from across the globe.