Belgian Mina Libeer Misses Out on Paris 2024 as World Championships Shift Olympic Qualification Odds

Belgian judoka Mina Libeer's dreams of competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games were dashed this week as unexpected turns at the World Championships altered the qualification landscape. Despite her impressive career and persistent efforts, the 26-year-old from Wilrijk will not be joining the Belgian judo team in Paris.

Libeer, who has been a beacon of hope for Belgian judo, faced an uphill battle in her quest for Olympic qualification. The competition was fierce, and ultimately, her fate was sealed by the outstanding performances of her compatriots. Gabriella Willems, making a remarkable comeback after a long injury, secured a direct qualification by clinching fifth place in the -70kg category at the World Championships. This result guaranteed Willems' spot, significantly impacting the available quota for other athletes.

Adding to the complexity was Toma Nikiforov, another top Belgian judoka, who had yet to secure his Olympic berth. Nikiforov's early exit in the first round of the World Championships meant he would likely need the continental quota spot to qualify, a position that had been eyed for Libeer. With Nikiforov's anticipated use of the quota, Libeer's chances of making it to Paris evaporated.

Mina Libeer has built a commendable career in judo, marked by numerous accolades. She secured bronze medals at the 2017 World Junior Championships in Zagreb and the 2022 Senior European Championships in Sofia. Her prowess was further demonstrated with bronze medals at the 2021 Grand Slam events in Paris and Baku, as well as at the Grand Slam in Tel Aviv. In recent times, she added to her medal haul with a bronze at the 2023 Oceania Open in Perth and the 2024 Grand Prix Linz.

Born to parents Eddy and Sonja and following in the footsteps of her older brother Michaël, Libeer started judo at the age of five. She joined Judoschool Merelbeke, inspired by her brother's switch from gymnastics to judo. Over the years, she trained under the guidance of national coach Mark van der Ham and honed her skills at the Wilrijk Topsport Centre. Her preferred techniques, Uchi-mata and Kata-guruma, have been instrumental in her success.

Beyond her judo career, Libeer pursued academic achievements, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy from Hogeschool Gent in 2023. She balances her athletic pursuits with her role as an employee in the Topsport department.

The news of her non-qualification was a significant blow to Libeer. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed both disappointment and determination. "Missing out on the Olympics is incredibly tough, especially after all the hard work and sacrifices. However, I am proud of my achievements and the journey I've been on. This setback won't stop me from pursuing my dreams in judo and beyond," Libeer stated.

She also extended her congratulations to Willems and support for Nikiforov, emphasizing the unity and spirit of the Belgian judo community. "I am proud of Gabriella and Toma. We are all part of a team, and I will be cheering for them as they represent Belgium in Paris," she added.

Mina Libeer’s Olympic dreams may have been thwarted this time not competing in Paris, her story is far from over. She remains committed to her sport and aims to continue competing at the highest levels. Her resilience and passion for judo will undoubtedly drive her to future success.