Croatia honours its judo frontrunners

The first grand prix of the new Olympic cycle, which marks the entry of judo into a new era of development, began today at the Arena Zagreb in Croatia. In the presence of Barbara Matic, the brand new Croatian Olympic champion, the five lightest categories competed throughout a day marked by the youth and dynamism of athletes who all dream of one day inscribing their name in the pantheon of world sport.

This rise to the top undoubtedly passes through this grand prix which brings together 40 delegations. We will have to remember the names of some judoka that we will certainly see in four years on the tatami of the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Between now and then, a lot will happen, many grand prix and grand slams, World Judo Masters and of course world championships, the next of which will be held in Budapest in 2025.

In order to honour its champions and inspire new ones, the Croatian Judo Federation presented 'certificates of achievement' to several athletes who have marked the history of judo in the country.

The federation declared, "We are now in a moment of celebration as we recognise the outstanding achievements of the Croatian judo athletes. It is with great pride that we present certificates of achievement to these remarkable individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication and perseverance in their sport."

The athletes were: Marijana Miskovic Hasanbegovic, Tomislav Marijanovic, Barbara Matic, Dominik Druzeta, Karla Prodan, Ana Viktorija Puljiz and Lara Cvjetko. The certificates was presented by President of the Croatian Judo Federation Dr Sanda Corak.