Napolis wins first-ever gold for Philippines in World Combat Games

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino ju-jitsu fighter Kaila Napolis brought home a historic gold medal in the World Combat Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Napolis defeated France’s Anael Pannetier in the gold medal match of the -52 kilogram Ne-Waza competition, 2-0. 

It is the Philippines’ first-ever gold medal in the World Combat Games.

Prior to the gold medal match, Napolis submitted Mongolia’s Mongoljin Ganbaatar in the semifinals.

She also won by points over Colombia’s Adriana Cruz.

The Filipina won the gold medal a few weeks after copping a bronze medal in the Hangzhou Asian Games.

On Facebook, Asian Games gold medalist Annie Ramirez lauded Napolis, saying it is “another record breaking feat for Philippines in ju-jitsu history.” 

Over the weekend, Agatha Wong and Clemente Tabugara Jr. brought home silver medals in the World Combat Games for wushu. 

Jones Inso and Thornton Sayan also delivered wushu bronzes for the Philippines.