NAME: Andreja LESKI
COUNTRY: SLOVENIA
CATEGORY: -63kg
WORLD RANKING POINTS: 6366
When you think of power, precision, and a touch of Slovenian charm wrapped into one athlete, well, you may have many names to mention. However, for this year, it would be Andreja LEŠKI, the name that effortlessly springs to mind. Closing out the season as the world-ranked leader in the fiercely competitive -63kg category, Leški has not only claimed her spot at the top but has also solidified Slovenia’s reputation as a powerhouse in this weight division.
Slovenia might be small in size but when it comes to producing world-class judoka in the -63kg category, this nation punches well above its weight. Instead of relying on many opportunities, for Leški to finish on top, it was all about taking one shot at the only opportunity she had, the opportunity that only comes around every four years: to win the Olympic Games. En route to Paris this year, she bagged two Grand Slam medals and a European podium finish, none of which would normally be enough to secure global dominance. However, when you become Olympic champion, you take another 2,200 points home with you, and that is what pushed Leški over the edge, finishing the year by crowning herself with the world #1 spot.
Now, don’t let the titles and medals fool you, Leški is as grounded as they come. Known for her infectious smile and easy-going nature, she remains refreshingly down-to-earth despite her towering achievements. Whether it’s cracking jokes, sharing a laugh or humbly accepting yet another gold medal, Leški embodies the spirit of a true champion. She carries her success with an air of effortlessness that makes you forget just how much sweat, sacrifice, and sheer grit it takes to become the best in the world. For now, though, Leški remains Slovenia’s golden girl, a beacon of inspiration, and living proof of the values of judo, on and off the mat.
Čestitke!
Author: Szandra Szogedi