French judo team finishes seventh

The French judo team concluded the World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, with a seventh-place finish, marking a disappointing end to an otherwise lackluster tournament.

Limited medal count

The team had secured only four medals prior to the final day, with silver medals for Kaïla Issoufi and Romane Dicko, and bronze for Shirine Boukli and Dayyan Boulemtafes. The French squad had hoped for a stronger showing, particularly in the mixed team event, which had previously brought success during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Key absences affect performance

However, the absence of Teddy Riner, who was out due to injury, as well as the exclusion of Joan-Benjamin Gaba and Clarisse Agbegnenou from the team event, significantly impacted the team's chances. Aleksa Mitrovic, a 24-year-old judoka competing in the -90 kg category, became a symbol of the team's disappointments.

Defeat in crucial matches

He was defeated in the quarterfinals and repêchage rounds on Thursday during the individual event and faced the same challenge again on Sunday. In the crucial quarterfinal match, Mitrovic faced Mansur Lorsanov of Russia in a closely contested battle that ended in a 3-4 defeat.

Injury and strategy

Subsequently, Mitrovic faced Lasha Bekauri of Georgia, a double Olympic champion in the -90 kg category. Bekauri had suffered a right knee injury early in the match, which could have been a significant advantage for Mitrovic. However, Bekauri managed to overcome the odds, winning the match despite the injury.

Athlete's reaction

Mitrovic expressed his frustration after the match, stating, "I don't know what to say. I didn't perform well. It's almost inhumane to break his leg. I know he wouldn't have hesitated. I wasn't up to the task. I apologize on behalf of the team."

Coach's critique

His coach, Daniel Fernandes, criticized Mitrovic's approach, suggesting that the judoka was too lenient in his strategy. Fernandes emphasized the need for a more aggressive approach in combat sports, stating, "It's frustrating because it happened the same way in the first match and in the gold medal match. It's not about not respecting the opponent to target their weakness. If he wants to reach the next level, he needs to be more resolute."

Strategic advice ignored

Fernandes had reportedly advised Mitrovic to target Bekauri's injured right leg while maintaining distance to prevent the opponent from using his hip. However, Mitrovic did not follow this advice, and the result was a second defeat against Bekauri.