Judoka Angélique Duriez secured the bronze medal in the under-57 kilogram F3 category at the World Veterans Championships in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Competing for the Judo-club Argentan, Duriez survived a four-match gauntlet, recovering from an early setback to claim a world medal on the international circuit.
Path to the Podium in Sarajevo
Angélique Duriez opened her tournament campaign in the -57 kg F3 division against a host-nation competitor representing Bosnia-Herzegovina. Following a cautious opening exchange, the judoka asserted control by increasing the pressure on her attacks. She secured her progression by executing a Sankaku-jime choke hold to win by ippon.
The second round presented a stiffer test against a Belgian opponent who ultimately advanced to the category final. Duriez was caught off guard within the opening seconds by a hip technique, conceding a waza-ari. Despite subsequent attacking efforts, she could not overturn the deficit, dropping into the repechage bracket.
Repechage and Bronze Medal Victory
Rebounding in the repechage, Duriez faced a Spanish competitor and quickly reasserted her rhythm. She deployed her Sankaku-jime technique once more, forcing another ippon victory to earn a place in the third-place playoff.
In the bronze medal contest, the Argentan athlete dictated the tempo from the opening whistle. Demonstrating high mobility and a strong grip-fighting game, she initiated the attack before driving her opponent to the mat with a shoulder movement. She immediately transitioned to the ground, applying her Sankaku-jime hold to clinch the match by ippon and seal the podium finish.
Extending an International Palmarès
The result in Sarajevo adds to an established international record for Duriez. Her previous global successes include a bronze medal in Abu Dhabi and a world championship title secured in Las Vegas.
Support staff from her home club in the Orne department traveled to Bosnia-Herzegovina, with Justin accompanying the judoka throughout the competition weekend.
Upcoming European Championships
Duriez turns her focus to the European Veterans Championships, scheduled to take place in Portugal in one month. The continental tournament provides an immediate opportunity to face top-tier competitors within her weight and age category.
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