NAME: Distria KRASNIQI
COUNTRY: KOSOVO
CATEGORY: -52KG
WORLD RANKING POINTS: 7715
She is the gift that keeps on giving. Distria KRASNIQI found Olympic glory in the -48kg category and then set sights on a new challenge, the takeover of the -52kg weight class, one already made famous in Kosovo by Majlinda KELMENDI.
![](https://uploads.eju.net/2021/07/OG TOKYO 2020 EJU GabiJuan FINALS DAY 1 0093-1024x683.jpg)
It was a fantastically strong start to the year for Krasniqi, adding a second Paris Grand Slam gold medal to her collection. Aside from a single 5th place finish in 2023, Krasniqi has collected medals and achievements in all her endeavours, including a special finish.
In the inaugural European Championship Open, held in Kosovo, Krasniqi joined team mate Nora GJAKOVA in the -57kg category, and both concluded the event with bronze medal wins. With both of these Olympic Champions looking forward to Paris, there is potential for further titles to be earned.
![](https://uploads.eju.net/2023/12/EJU_Gabi_Juan_2023__15A9957-1024x683.jpg)
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen