Distria Krasniqi crowned European champion for the fourth time in Tbilisi

TBILISI — Distria Krasniqi has returned to the top of European judo after winning gold in the under-52kg category at the European Championships held in Tbilisi, Georgia. According to Nacionale, it is the fourth time she has stood on the highest step of a continental podium, confirming her dominance in one of the most demanding weight classes.

Krasniqi went through an impressive run on her way to the final, dispatching experienced opponents with efficiency. The decisive bout was settled in her favour with a clean technique that reflected long hours of preparation and her champion’s focus.

The Kosovo Judo Federation hailed the result as another chapter in the country’s growing sporting story, noting that Krasniqi continues a legacy already adorned with Olympic and world medals.

Backing from the state and her team

Following the final, congratulations poured in from institutions and fellow athletes who said the Tbilisi result confirms the systematic work of the federation and the coaches who have accompanied the judoka for years. The performance in Georgia is considered an important marker as she eyes the next international cycle.

Krasniqi has often said her motivation does not come from the number of medals but from a desire to keep growing technically. That mindset, according to her support staff, is what has kept her at the European elite level for so long.

After the bout, Krasniqi said the new medal belongs to a team effort and that she feels a responsibility to represent Kosovo with dignity wherever she steps onto the tatami, vowing not to stop chasing new goals.

The judoka’s latest success arrives at a moment when Kosovan sport is searching for inspirational role models for the next generation, and Krasniqi remains squarely in that role.

Source: Nacionale