Sanshiro Murao Dominates Men’s -90kg Judo Elimination Round at Paris 2024

In a gripping encounter at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Japan's Sanshiro Murao showcased his exceptional judo skills in the Men’s -90 kg Elimination Round of 16, held on July 31, 2024, at the iconic Champ-de-Mars Arena. Murao, ranked third in the world, faced off against Estonia's Klen Kristofer Kaljulaid in a match that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

The bout began at 11:54 AM local time and quickly escalated in intensity. Murao, wearing a white judogi, weighed in at 89.7 kg, while Kaljulaid, in blue, came in slightly heavier at 89.9 kg. The two athletes displayed remarkable technique and strategy, but it was Murao's agility and precision that ultimately secured him the victory.

In just 44 seconds, Murao executed a flawless O-soto-gari, earning him an IPP, the highest score in judo, which allowed him to advance to the quarter-finals (PROG_QFNL). With this victory, Murao not only demonstrated his prowess but also solidified his status as a strong contender for the gold medal.

Kaljulaid, whose best result was a second-place finish at the Perth Oceania Open 2023, fought valiantly but was unable to overcome Murao's tactical brilliance. This defeat marked a significant moment in Kaljulaid's Olympic journey, as he was eliminated from the competition.

The match was officiated by Jean Claude Djimbi from Gabon, ensuring fair play throughout the contest. The atmosphere in the Champ-de-Mars Arena was electric, filled with cheers and excitement as Murao celebrated his hard-fought victory.

As the Olympics continue, all eyes will be on Sanshiro Murao as he prepares for the next round, with hopes high for a medal for Japan in judo. Fans are eagerly anticipating what this talented athlete will bring to the mat in the upcoming challenges.