Sasson to fight for bronze after last-gasp defeat

Israeli judoka defeated by reigning Olympic champion in last second of semi-final clash.

By Andrew Sherwood
  • Andrew Sherwood is the Jewish News Sport and Community Editor
12 August 2016, 8:36 pm
Sasson trudges off the mat having lost his semi-final in dramatic style

Ori Sasoon suffered a heart-breaking and dramatic defeat, when he was beaten in the last second of his 100kg semi-final on Friday evening.

Sasson, the first ever Israeli heavyweight, who is taking part in his first Olympic Games was up against the eight-time World champion and Olympic champion Teddy Riner, and went into the fight as heavy underdog.

However, the Israeli came out to fight, not allowing the favourite to dominate proceedings. Falling behind when awarded a penalty midway, that was levelled up with a minute remaining, and with the seconds ticking down, the fight seemed to be heading to golden score.

But, with Sasson looking at the clock, a vital lack of concentration allowed the Frenchman to execute a perfect Waza-Ari, picking him up and slamming him down in the final second.

Sasson will though still fight for bronze, when he takes on Cuban Alex Garcia Mendoza.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli was at the centre of controversy when his Egyptian opponent refused to shake his hand at the end of their fight

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