Beatriz Souza Claims Gold in Women +78 kg Judo Final at Paris 2024 Olympics

On August 2, 2024, Beatriz Souza from Brazil emerged victorious in the Women +78 kg Judo Final at the Paris 2024 Olympics, held at the Champ-de-Mars Arena. The match against Israel's Raz Hershko showcased the exceptional skills of both athletes, culminating in a dramatic finish that captivated fans around the world.

The match began with Souza quickly establishing her dominance, securing an early point with an impressive O-soto-guruma throw just 44 seconds into the contest. This early lead set the tone for the match, but Hershko, ranked second in the world, fought back fiercely, utilizing her agility and tactical prowess.

As the contest progressed, both competitors faced penalties, with each accumulating points for their actions. Souza demonstrated her resilience and strategic approach, maintaining her lead effectively. With just under four minutes into the match, Souza's technique and composure paid off, as she earned two more significant points, bringing her total to 2, while Hershko struggled to find her rhythm, ultimately finishing with 0 points.

The match officially concluded after a tense four minutes, with Souza declared the champion. This victory not only awarded her the gold medal but also solidified her reputation as a leading figure in women's judo, following her commendable performances in previous competitions, including a second-place finish at the Tashkent World Championships in 2022.

Souza's triumph in Paris is a significant milestone for Brazilian judo and is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes. As the arena erupted in cheers, Souza's achievement marked a proud moment for her country, highlighting the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines the Olympic Games.