Qingdao Grand Prix 2025People's Republic of China

+78 kg: Hyeonji Lee Shows Her Ability

Sep 28, 2025
by: Nicolas Messner
Emanuele Di Feliciantonio
In the final, junior world champion and senior world bronze medallist Hyeonji Lee (KOR) and world bronze medallist Lea Fontaine (FRA) came into the arena under the lights and music now synonymous with a World Judo Tour final block.
Gold medallist, Hyeonji Lee (KOR)
Gold medallist, Hyeonji Lee (KOR)

The Korean teenager had clearly done her homework and knew how best to approach the fight, applying a sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi in the second exchange which earned her a waza-ari and a good position to conclude on the ground. A grand prix title was Lee’s reward, a perfect prize after such a great day of judo.

Bronze medal contest, Adiyasuren Amarsaikhan (MGL) vs Helena Vukovic (CRO).
Bronze medal contest, Adiyasuren Amarsaikhan (MGL) vs Helena Vukovic (CRO).

Adiyasuren Amarsaikhan (MGL) and Helena Vukovic (CRO) kept the pace high in the first bronze medal contest of the heavyweight women’s category. Both attacked frequently, both moved impressively in both attack and defence, neither let their resolve slip. As the golden score period began, a couple of penalties were given but it was nothing serious and the fight continued in the same way.

Five minutes of extra time were needed to separate them, eventually offering the win to the Croatian judoka on penalties. The scoreboard didn’t look exciting but the judo stayed positive throughout, a close and energetic contest.

Bronze medal contest, Ye Liang (CHN).
Bronze medal contest, Ye Liang (CHN).

In the second bronze medal contest Jinesinuer Ayiman (CHN) was unable to compete and so Ye Liang (CHN) would take the bronze medal.

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Mohammed Meridja, IJF Education & Coaching Director, and Ms Fang Qian, CHAHUOLI International Group.
Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Mohammed Meridja, IJF Education & Coaching Director, and Ms Fang Qian, CHAHUOLI International Group.

Competition Results

+78 kg

Final

Hyeonji LEE
KOR
vs
Lea FONTAINE
FRA

Bronze Medal Contests

Adiyasuren AMARSAIKHAN
MGL
vs
Helena VUKOVIC
CRO
Ye LIANG
CHN
vs
Jinesinuer AYIMAN
CHN
Article image