Russian celebration after judo victory

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Russian celebration after judo victory
Photo: Boglarka Bodnar/AP/TT

Ajub Blijev became the first Russian judoka in just over two years to celebrate with the flag and national anthem when he won the grand slam tournament in Abu Dhabi.

The victory came the day after the International Judo Federation (IJF) made the decision to lift restrictions on Russia.

They are now allowed to compete under the Russian flag in what is the favorite sport of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

A decision that the Nordic federations and not least Ukraine have opposed.

It's sad, Swedish Judo Federation chairwoman Kristiina Pekkola told TT after Thursday's decision.

Aijub Bliev defeated Mongolian Ariunbold Enkhtaivan in the final of the 60-kilogram class.

Russia and Belarus have been allowed to compete under a neutral flag since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

Belarus had its restrictions lifted in June this year.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for our readers

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