From November 28 to 30, the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2025 will take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking one of the most important events of the late season in judo. This prestigious tournament will feature competitors from 43 countries, with a total of 365 athletes — 212 men and 153 women — all vying for medals and ranking points in what promises to be a highly competitive event.
Tajikistan, known for consistently producing talented judokas on the world stage, will once again send a formidable team. This time, the Tajik team will compete across ten men’s weight categories, giving them a strong chance to contend for medals and valuable ranking points. The roster includes:
· Mehrzod Sufiyev (60 kg)
· Mullorajab Khalifayev (66 kg)
· Abubakr Sherov, Muhiddin Asadulloyev (both 73 kg)
· Sunatullo Musoyev, Behrouz Khojazoda (both 81 kg)
· Abdulkhad Majidov, Muhammadjon Abdudjalilzoda (both 90 kg)
· Somon Kishvarov, Jahongir Majidov (both 100 kg)
The selection reflects a balance of dynamic, younger athletes alongside more experienced judokas, all ready to fight for top positions in their highly competitive categories.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam is a crucial stage in the preparation for the 2026 season and upcoming qualification tournaments. For the younger athletes, this event will serve as a test against some of the strongest opponents in the world. For the more established competitors, it offers a chance to prove their skills, boost their rankings, and solidify their positions in the global top rankings.
Held at the Mubadala Arena, a state-of-the-art venue that has hosted numerous prestigious international events, the tournament offers some of the best conditions in the sport.
The total prize pool for the competition will be €154,000, with medalists receiving significant payouts: €5,000 for gold, €3,000 for silver, and €1,500 for bronze. Beyond the opportunity to earn ranking points, this financial incentive adds an extra layer of appeal, making the tournament even more enticing for athletes seeking to make their mark on the world stage.
