Already we have been impressed by Yelyzaveta LYTVYNENKO (UKR) this year, after a stunning win in the European Youth Olympic Festival to go along with her cadet continental title in 2021. The young athlete has also had experience on the senior circuit, placing fifth in the Tbilisi Grand Slam and bronze in the Madrid European Open, demonstrating she is a force to be reckoned with.
On her way to the junior European title, she performed a slew of ippon-scoring techniques and in the final against Yael VAN HEEMST (NED) took the win by submission in the first minute.
I had huge support from my coach and we had a big discussion before the final. He explained to me how I needed to behave in the final and we made a plan. Of course everything went very well!
Not only did she have an incredible day but she succeeded with her family in the tribune cheering her on every step of the way.
I am so happy and proud to be the junior European champion. My father came from Ukraine just to support me, as well as may mother and brother. It was only for these championships they came so it was a special time for me.
Not only that but she was joined on the podium by her team mate, Yuliia KURCHENKO, which just goes to show the strength they have in this category.
🥇LYTVYNENKO Yelyzaveta 🇺🇦
🥈VAN HEEMST Yael 🇳🇱
🥉DERKS Lieke 🇳🇱
🥉KURCHENKO Yuliia 🇺🇦 © Gabi Juan
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen