It is nothing short of a tale of trials and tribulations for Gabriella WILLEMS of Belgium. Struck down by injury before the Tokyo Olympic Games, the Olympic dream came crashing down for the Belgian athlete.
After numerous operations and unsure of a comeback, Willems has not only proven she can be back fighting fit on the tatami, but she has grabbed every second of this opportunity to prove she is worthy of Olympic status. Seeing out European silver medallist Elisavet TELTSIDOU (GRE) was a huge first step, but to come back through the repechage by defeating the home favourite, Marie Eve GAHIE (FRA) with a beautiful juji gatame, was a class act.
For the bronze however she was facing one of the toughest, both defensively and physically, in the category, Sanne VAN DIJKE (NED).
Perhaps Van Dijke was struggling after the semi final loss against Matic, or maybe Willems simply had her number, but whatever the circumstance, the Dutch athlete looked at a loss in her bronze medal bout.
Instead, Willems had complete control and score with a huge tomoe nage, not only her long limbs, but the control of the upper part of the body played a huge roll in earning the waza ari score, which after review looked to be a hair away from an ippon. Nevertheless, Willems continued her onslaught and in the final seconds, was almost in position to apply juji gatame, until mate was called.
Given Willems relationship with partner, Christian PARLATI (ITA), it was especially nice to see her celebrate not only with Team Belgium, but Team Italy as well!
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen