Panamanian Kristine Jimenez Made History Defeating Muna Dahouk in Paris

Panamanian Kristine Jimenez made history with an excellent performance of achieving the first victory for Panamanian judo in the Paris 2024 Olympics.  The Isthmus native defeated the judoka from the refugee team Muna Dahouk by Ippon, in round of 32 of this competition.  “The first fight is very important, no matter whom it is.  I was very motivated by the first fight,” Jimenez told reporters.  The victory over Dahouk has a special significance in Jimenez’s career, as it is her first triumph at the Olympic Games.  “It’s history for us at the Olympic Games.  I’m going to keep preparing and give my best for Panama,” said Jiménez, who competed in Tokyo 2020, but in the 52-kilogram category.  “I feel proud to represent all Panamanians.

Jimenez did lose a fight against Canadian Christa Deguchi – the world number one – in the 57-kilogram category.  Jimenez, 28 years old, showed good skills, but was surprised by Deguchi, who took the victory by Ippon. “I couldn’t win the second fight [against the Canadian].  I’ve been doing an indescribable job, I did the job and gave my best,” she said.  The Canadian was superior… I was out of the competition, but I will take that experience with me,” she added. 

Jiménez took the opportunity to ask for more support for the different sports disciplines in the country.  “My teammates are looking forward to a new gym and good areas to train, especially in Veraguas,” he said.  “We have young people who are coming up through the ranks and who have the potential to make it to the Olympic Games. I would like them to support the athletes and for us to have the facilities,” she said.  Jiménez arrived in Paris 2024 after having won the bronze medal at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, fifth place at the Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador 2023 and fifth place at the South American Games in Asunción 2023.