The French flag flew proudly above the podium on Sunday as Blandine Pont captured gold in the women’s –52 kg category at the Prague European Open, once again confirming the depth and strength of France’s women’s judo programme.
Pont, who injured her knee at the 2024 European Championships in Zagreb, made her comeback in Dubrovnik this April with a bronze medal, followed by another bronze at the Grand Prix in Dushanbe. In July she fought one contest in Mongolia.
The 26-year-old French judoka, who entered the competition as one of the favourites, displayed her tactical sharpness throughout the day. In the final, she combined patience with explosive precision to seal her victory in front of the Czech crowd.
Pont: “I am really happy to win here in Prague. I said to my coach Sami Zran that I won here before in 2019, so this city is good for me. My coach helped me through the day and I was glad to fight four matches.”
In the final, Pont defeated Tatum Keen (GBR) by waza-ari thanks to two o-soto-gari attacks, and she managed the last minute of the contest professionally. It was her third European Open victory, but her first at –52 kg.
Pont: “I will stay in this category and try to qualify for the Olympic Games. It is still far away, so the first goal is a good result at the French Championships in December. After one year of suffering with an injury, this is a very welcome and motivating medal. I would like to thank my coach Sami. The final was actually easier than the semi-final against my teammate Léa Metrot, but I got the result I wanted. Prague is a good city for me, so I hope one day the World Championships will be organised here, so I can win again,” Pont said with a big smile.
A Statement Win
For Pont, the gold medal in Prague is more than just another addition to her growing collection. The Prague European Open was a crucial step towards bigger ambitions. “It was good preparation for the next steps such as the French Championships and, hopefully next year, the European and World Championships. I will try to aim for the Olympic Games.”
Her path to the final was not without challenges. Several opponents forced her to adapt her strategy, but Pont responded with maturity and resilience.
Eyes on Bigger Prizes
Competing in such a competitive category as –52 kg requires not only technical skill but also mental resilience. Pont spoke candidly about the demands of performing consistently within a team as deep as France’s.
Like many champions, Pont understands that her success is about more than medals. She sees her role as an inspiration for young judoka, especially girls looking to follow in her footsteps.
As the French anthem echoed through the Prague hall, Pont raised her hand in quiet triumph. For her, it was a moment to savour, but also a reminder of the road ahead.
Pont: “I trained a lot in Mongolia and Japan this summer, so I was well prepared. I tried to do my best, attacking on both sides, especially with my o-soto-gari and seoi-nage.”
Author: Hans Van Essen
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