Odette Giuffrida Dominates Women's -52 kg Quarterfinal in Judo

In a thrilling quarterfinal match of the Women’s -52 kg judo event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Odette Giuffrida from Italy showcased her exceptional skills, defeating Hungary's Reka Pupp. The match, held on July 28, 2024, at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, was a testament to Giuffrida's prowess in the sport.

The contest began with both athletes displaying their strategies, but it was Giuffrida who gained the upper hand early on. Within just 2 minutes and 21 seconds, she executed a Harai-goshi-gaeshi technique that earned her a Waza-ari point, putting her in the lead. Throughout the match, Giuffrida maintained a strong offensive approach, which resulted in Pupp receiving penalties, showcasing the pressure Giuffrida applied.

As the match progressed, Giuffrida continued to dominate. Despite receiving her own penalties, she skillfully maneuvered her way through to secure a decisive victory, finishing with a score that highlighted her skill set. Giuffrida ended the contest with a total of 2 points, including one Waza-ari, while Pupp was left scoreless.

Giuffrida's victory not only propels her into the semifinals but also reaffirms her status as a top contender in the judo world, especially after her remarkable performance at the Abu Dhabi World Championships earlier this year, where she claimed first place. Reka Pupp, ranked 6th in the world, will now look to regroup as she continues her Olympic journey in the repechage round.

The match was officiated by Matthieu Bataille from France, who ensured fair play as the athletes competed fiercely on Mat 2 of the Champ-de-Mars Arena. With this impressive victory, Giuffrida continues to inspire fans and young athletes alike, demonstrating the spirit of competition at the Olympic Games.