Israeli Judo Athletes Win Gold and Bronze at Grand Slam Tournament

Israeli judoka Karem Primu, 21, secured a bronze medal at the Budapest Grand Slam on Saturday, September 12th. This marks her first career medal in the prestigious World Tour series. Primu's bronze was the second medal for the Israeli team at the Hungarian competition. On September 11th, 2026, 18-year-old Yitzhak Aspiz won a gold medal in the under-60 kg category. Primu competed in the under-63 kg division. She defeated an athlete from South Africa in her first match and then overcame Czech judoka Renata Zachova in the round of 16 via warnings. In the quarterfinals, Primu lost to Kaja Kaiser of Slovenia. Following her defeat, Primu advanced to the repechage tournament, where she secured a win by ippon against Natalia Kropuska of Poland, qualifying for the bronze medal match. Her opponent was Laura Fazliu of Kosovo, a bronze medalist at the Paris Olympics and the 2024 and 2025 World Championships. Fazliu initially took the lead, with Primu receiving two warnings within the first minute. Despite the difficult start, Primu fought back, forcing the match into golden score. In the decisive phase, Primu increased her pressure and executed several attacks, ultimately winning the match and earning her first Grand Slam medal. "I am happy. This is my first Grand Slam medal, and it means a lot to me. It's a big gift for me and another gift for the country for Rosh Hashanah," Primu stated, adding that while pleased, she recognizes the need for further improvement and intends to continue working towards top results. Head coach of the women's national team, Shani Hershko, called Primu's first Grand Slam medal a significant milestone in her career, highlighting her high level, character, determination, and maturity during crucial moments. Hershko emphasized the importance of her victory over an Olympic medalist and noted Primu's progress as another key achievement for the Israeli team. The Grand Slam is a major series of international tournaments within the International Judo Federation's World Tour, attracting top national athletes and influencing world and Olympic rankings. Grand Slam medals are considered highly significant achievements in international judo, ranking just below Olympic and World Championship medals.