Flagbearers in judo: Nora and Akil Gjakova (KOS)

In a proud moment for Kosovo, siblings Akil and Nora Gjakova will carry the flag for their country at the Paris Olympic Games. The brother-sister duo are among three sets of siblings competing in the judo tournament, making their participation a special highlight. Nora Gjakova, who will defend her Olympic title in the U57kg category, and her brother Akil, a former European Champion, will aim to make their mark in the U73kg division.

Akil Gjakova, born in 1996, in Peja, Kosovo, began practicing judo at the age of six, training alongside his sister Nora. Their father, who had a background in karate, introduced them to the sport, and they started their journey under the guidance of coach Driton Kuka. Akil’s rise in judo has been marked by significant achievements. He made his Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, finishing seventh in the -73kg category.

His track record includes notable performances at the European Championships, where he won gold in Lisbon in 2021 and bronze in 2023. Akil also has several other accolades, such as winning the Grand Slam in Paris in 2018, the Grand Prix in Zagreb in 2018, and the Grand Prix in Budapest in 2019.

His success at the European Championships was particularly historic, as he became the first Kosovan male judoka to win a European title.

Nora Gjakova, born in 1992, also in Peja, has been an outstanding athlete in her own right.

She first garnered international attention with her performances at the World Championships, securing a bronze medal in 2021 in Budapest. Her Olympic journey began in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, where she placed ninth in the -57kg category. However, it was at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where she achieved her greatest triumph, winning the gold medal in her weight class.

Her judo journey began at the age of 10, training alongside her younger brother Akil. Their father, passionate about martial arts, introduced them to the sport.

Nora’s career has been decorated with numerous achievements, and she enters the Paris Games as the defending champion in her weight class.

The Gjakova siblings’ journey in judo began with their father's encouragement and their early training under coach Driton Kuka. Their commitment and dedication have been pivotal in their rise to the top echelons of the sport. Akil, a student at the Faculty of Physical Culture and Sports at Kolegji AAB, balances his academic pursuits with his rigorous training regimen.

Akil and Nora’s participation in the Paris Olympics not only showcases their personal dedication and talent but also represents a proud moment for Kosovo on the international stage. Their story is one of family support, resilience, and a shared passion for judo, inspiring many young athletes in their country and beyond.

As flagbearers, Akil and Nora Gjakova will lead their national delegation, symbolizing Kosovo’s hopes and aspirations at the Paris Olympic Games. Their presence is a testament to their hard work and the strength of their familial bond, as they continue to write history for Kosovo in the world of judo.

Judo Flagbearers so far (updated Friday)

Amina Belkadi (ALG)

Ange Ciella Niragira (BUR)

Anna-Maria Wagner (GER)

Arnold Kisoka (COD)

Barbara Matic (CRO)

Djamila Silva (CPV)

Erlan Sherov (KGZ)

Faye Njie (GAM)

Gultaj Mammadaliyeva (AZE)

Hugo Cumbo (VAN)

Idalys Ortiz (CUB)

Izayana Marenco (NCA)

Juan Postigos (PER)

Klen Kristofer Kaljulaid (EST)

Krisztian Toth (HUN)

Larisa Ceric (BIH)

Manita Shrestha Pradhan (NEP)

Maryam March Maharani (INA)

Michaela Polleres (AUT)

Nora Gjakova (KOS)

Akil Gjakova (KOS)

Peter Paltchik (ISR)

Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CMR)

Serdar Rahimov (TKM)

Temur Rakhimov (TJK)

Valentin Houinato (BEN)

Thomas Mlugu (TAN)

Lukas Krpalek (CZE)