Christa Deguchi Claims Gold in Women's -57 kg Judo Final at Paris 2024

In an exciting showdown during the Women's -57 kg Judo Final at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Christa Deguchi of Canada emerged victorious against Mimi Huh from Korea. The match, held on July 29, 2024, at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, showcased remarkable skills and determination from both athletes.

Deguchi, who weighed in at 56.7 kg, entered the final ranked first in the world, demonstrating her prowess and experience. She previously secured a first-place finish at the 2019 World Championships, setting high expectations for her performance in Paris. The match began with a tense atmosphere, as both competitors exchanged penalties early on. At the end of the first round, the score stood closely contested.

As the match progressed into the golden score period, which lasted an impressive 6 minutes and 35 seconds, Deguchi's strategic gameplay began to shine. The pivotal moment came when she executed a decisive technique, scoring an 'IPP' that confirmed her victory. The judges awarded her the gold medal with a final score of 10 points, leaving Huh with 0 points. Huh, who entered the competition ranked third in the world and weighing 56.9 kg, fought valiantly but ultimately could not overcome Deguchi's skillful attack.

The match was officiated by French referee Matthieu Bataille, who ensured fair play throughout the contest. Deguchi's victory not only marked a personal achievement but also brought pride to her nation as she claimed the top spot on the podium in one of the most competitive weight classes in judo.

This thrilling final concluded with Deguchi celebrating her hard-earned victory, solidifying her status as one of the top judokas in the world. Fans around the globe witnessed a spectacular display of judo, showcasing the spirit of the Olympics and the dedication of its athletes. With this win, Christa Deguchi has set the stage for future competitions, aiming to continue her success in the sport.