Laura Martínez
Spain delivered a show-stopping performance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, claiming one gold and three bronze medals on the opening day of competition. With four total podium finishes and two near-medal performances, the Spanish judo team proved its growing strength on the international stage.
Laura Martínez Wins Gold in –48 kg
Laura Martínez was the star of the day. The –48 kg powerhouse from Madrid dominated every match with precision and confidence. Her final bout showcased her exceptional form and fiery competitive spirit. By securing the gold medal, Martínez reinforced her status as one of Europe’s most dangerous judokas in her division. This victory highlights both her consistency and Spain’s rising presence in elite judo.
Three Bronze Medals Boost Spain’s Podium Count
Spain’s medal tally didn’t stop there. A trio of bronze medals showed the team’s depth and determination.
Niko Sherazadishvili (-100 kg), a former world champion, delivered a bronze of enormous value. After defeating Serbia’s Božo Brašnjović in the repechage, he overcame Hungary’s Zsombor Veg in the bronze-medal match, confirming his elite competitive maturity.
In –66 kg, Adrián Nieto displayed impressive focus and resilience to climb onto the podium in one of the tournament’s toughest brackets. His outstanding run through the repechage earned Spain another well-deserved bronze.
Marta García (-57 kg) closed the medal streak with a commanding performance. Her bronze reinforces the rapid progress she is showing at the highest levels of international judo.
Two Fifth-Place Finishes Keep Spain in the Spotlight
Spain’s results could have been even stronger. David García (-66 kg) and Eva Pérez (-48 kg) both finished in fifth place after tightly contested bronze-medal battles. Their performances showed that more podium finishes are within reach.
Spain Confirms Its Growth on the World Stage
With one gold, three bronze medals, and two fifth-place finishes, Spain’s opening day at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam stands among its best recent results. The national team continues to prove its ability to compete — and excel — against the world’s top judokas. Spain’s judo momentum is real, and the future looks brighter than ever.
