The Portuguese judoka João Fernando won the gold medal in the -81 kg category during the Taranto 2026 Games. The victory was obtained decisively, with the Portuguese athlete defeating Egyptian Abdelrahman Abdelghany by ippon, one of the most valued forms of victory in judo.
This victory allowed Portugal to reach its 18th medal from its delegation at these Games. The result reinforces Portugal's position in the medal table of the competition taking place in Taranto, Italy.
The ippon, the technique that earned João Fernando the victory, is considered the highest form of victory in judo, equivalent to a knockout, and usually results from an effective throw or hold-down of the opponent.
