Tato Grigalashvili says gesture showed respect for Zelim Tskayev, Azerbaijan

Four-time world champion Tato Grigalashvili has spoken about his victory over Azerbaijan’s Zelim Tskayev in the final of the world championships held in Baku. The Georgian judoka said strong motivation was one of the reasons for his win.

Grigalashvili said he won three consecutive world championships before taking silver, and wanted to reclaim the world title. He said that goal helped him focus on the competition.

The judoka said the final against Tskayev in Baku was more difficult than their previous encounters. He explained that embracing his opponent after the bout and raising his hand was a gesture of respect.

“I did this to show my respect for the great judoka Zelim and for all of Azerbaijan. I thank Zelim for having such a high-level final in Baku. It was a fantastic final,” Grigalashvili said.

Judo world championships bring together leading competitors from around the world, with athletes competing for titles in different weight categories. The final in Baku put the Georgian champion against Azerbaijan’s Tskayev, and Grigalashvili’s gesture after the bout underscored his appreciation for his opponent and the host country.