Flagbearers in judo: Klen-Kristofer Kaljulaid (EST)

Estonia once again has a judo Olympian, and Klen-Kristofer Kaljulaid is the man to wave the flag for his country. Born ìn 1995, in Tallinn, Estonia, Kaljulaid is a highly regarded judoka. Standing at 185 cm, he resides in his birthplace, where he has made significant strides in his sport.

Kaljulaid has competed in seven World Championships in the -90kg category, though he has yet to break into the last 16. His journey in the World Tour has seen him achieve several notable placements, including a silver medal at the 2024 Grand Prix in Almada, Portugal, marking his first World Tour medal. He also earned gold at the 2023 European Open in Tallinn.

Kaljulaid comes from a family of wrestlers and began his judo career at the age of four in kindergarten. His preferred technique is Ouchi-gari, and he trains at Ookami Spordiklubi under the guidance of his coaches. His international senior debut was at the 2014 European Open in Tallinn in the -81kg category.

Beyond judo, Kaljulaid is a smart and multifaceted individual. He holds a master's degree in finance and works as a venture capitalist. He is fluent in both English and Estonian. His hobbies include reading, and he draws inspiration from influential figures like Tim Heath, an early Bitcoin adopter and founder of the Yolo Group, and Elon Musk, the entrepreneur known for his innovative companies.

Kaljulaid's sporting philosophy is encapsulated in his motto, "Whoever wants it more, takes it," reflecting his competitive spirit and determination. Known for his unique superstition of folding clothes before competitions, Kaljulaid’s approach to judo and life exemplifies his dedication and meticulousness.

Klen-Kristofer Kaljulaid is not just an athlete but a standout figure outside the mat, a special one.

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)