Portugal and Switzerland Create Standout Moments in Lausanne

The Ecole Mont-Olivet Deaf Judo Masters in Lausanne brought deaf judoka from across the international field into the spotlight, with European teams making a strong impact on the medal table. Kazakhstan led the overall standings with seven gold, two silver and one bronze medal, while France and Azerbaijan completed the top three nations.

European representation ran deep throughout the two-day competition. France secured one gold, one silver and one bronze, while Azerbaijan earned one gold and one silver. Portugal, Türkiye, Hungary, Russia, Czechia, Poland and host nation Switzerland also reached the podium.

Joana Santos delivered one of the standout European performances, taking gold in the -57 kg category. Her victory was Portugal’s only medal at the event, making it an especially significant result for the Portuguese team.

Joana Santos turned Portugal’s single medal into gold in the -57 kg category.

There was also a memorable result for the hosts. Jonas Jenzer claimed bronze in the -66 kg category, giving Swiss supporters a podium moment in Lausanne. With Switzerland hosting the gathering, his medal added extra meaning to an event designed to provide deaf judoka with a prominent international stage.

The final medal table reflected more than the dominance of Kazakhstan. Fourteen nations earned at least one podium finish, underlining the competitive range of the Deaf Judo Masters and the reach of deaf judo across different countries.

For Europe, the results showed both leading performances and broad participation. From Santos’ gold for Portugal to Jenzer’s home bronze, the Lausanne event offered several moments that will matter well beyond the final standings.

The conclusion of the Deaf Judo Masters also formed part of Lausanne’s wider celebration of inclusive judo, bringing athletes, coaches and nations together around competition and visibility for deaf judoka.

Fourteen nations finished the event with at least one medal.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union