Gabriella Willems Triumphs in Women's -70kg Judo Repechage at Paris 2024

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Gabriella Willems from Belgium emerged victorious in the Women’s -70 kg Repechage contest at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The match took place on July 31, 2024, at the prestigious Champ-de-Mars Arena, where Willems faced off against France's Marie Eve Gahie.

The contest was intense, showcasing the brutal elegance of judo as both athletes fought for a chance to advance further in the competition. The match began at 16:06 local time and lasted a mere 40 seconds, with Willems executing a decisive Ude-hishigi-juji-gatame technique that earned her an IPP, leading to her victory over Gahie.

Willems, ranked 22nd in the world, weighed in at 69.4 kg and had previously achieved a commendable 5th place at the Abu Dhabi World Championships in 2024. Her opponent, Gahie, ranked 7th globally, was a formidable contender with a remarkable past record, including a first-place finish at the World Championships in 2019.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, filled with the cheers of supporters, as Willems' skillful performance secured her a place in the next round of the tournament. The contest concluded at 16:12, marking a significant moment in Willems' Olympic journey.

Referee Mariano dos Santos from Brazil officiated the match, ensuring fair play and adherence to the rules of judo. Willems’ victory not only highlights her talent but also boosts Belgium's presence in the judo events at the Olympics, as she aims for further success in her Olympic campaign.

As the competition unfolds, judo fans around the world will be keenly observing Gabriella Willems and her journey through the tournament, hoping for more remarkable performances from the Belgian athlete.