Heavyweights clash at Grand prix Dushanbe

As anticipation builds in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the upcoming Judo Grand Prix, 390 athletes from 65 countries are gearing up for a fierce competition to secure crucial points for the Paris Olympic Games. Among the stars set to shine is Temur Rakhimov, Tajikistan's own judo hero, aiming to improve on his silver medal from last year's Dushanbe World Judo Tour event.

French juggernaut Teddy Riner is another name to watch. Climbing the rankings following his gold at the 2023 Doha World Championships, Riner arrives in Dushanbe hungry for victory, aiming to break back into Olympic seeding and solidify his position with the Games drawing closer.

In the women's division, Canadian judoka Jessica Klimkait enters as a top seed, eager to make her mark after choosing to skip the continental title in favor of competing in Dushanbe. With an eye on Olympic selection, Klimkait faces tough competition, including Sarah-Leonie Cysique of France, whom she may meet again in the final.

Meanwhile, in the -78 kg category, Germany's Anna-Maria Wagner leads the pack following her silver medal win at the European Championships. Known for her consistency and tenacity, Wagner aims to maintain her winning streak in Dushanbe despite facing stiff competition from domestic rival Alina Boehm and other contenders.

With so much at stake, every match at the Dushanbe Judo Grand Prix promises to be electrifying, setting the stage for potential Olympic showdowns and showcasing the resilience and skill of judo's finest athletes.