Majlinda Kelmendi

Majlinda Kelmendi

Majlinda Kelmendi was born on May 9th, 1991

Full Name: Majlinda Kelmendi
Place of Birth: Peja, Kosovo
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Sport: Judo
Olympic Medal: Gold
Height: 5 ft 3 in
Weight: 52 kg
Nationality: Kosovar

Kosovo's first Olympic champion, winning gold in judo at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and a trailblazer for women's sports in her country.

Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood

Majlinda Kelmendi: The Golden Girl of Kosovan Judo

Majlinda Kelmendi, the Albanian-Kosovan judoka, etched her name in history by becoming the first Kosovan athlete to win a medal at the Olympic Games, triumphing in the women's 52 kg category at the 2016 Rio Olympics. This monumental achievement catapulted her to international stardom, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the world of judo.

Early Life and Background

Born on May 9, 1991, in Peja, Kosovo, Majlinda Kelmendi was destined for greatness. As the cousin-aunt's daughter of Swedish footballer Labinot Harbuzi, sports ran through her veins. Growing up in a Kosovo Albanian family, Majlinda's journey to becoming a world-class judoka was nothing short of remarkable.

Rise to Prominence

Kelmendi's judo career took off in 2009 when she won the gold medal at the World Junior Championships in Paris. She continued to make waves in the judo community, securing a 5th place finish at the 2010 World Junior Championships in Morocco and a 9th place finish at the 2010 World Judo Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

In 2012, she represented Albania at the Summer Olympics, and although she didn't medal, her performance set the stage for her future success. The following year, Majlinda made history by becoming the first Kosovan judoka to win a medal at the World Championships, clinching the gold in the 52 kg category in Rio de Janeiro.

A Golden Era

Kelmendi's dominance continued in 2014 when she retained her world title, solidifying her position as the number one ranked judoka in her category. Her impressive form earned her a third consecutive title at the 2016 Paris Grand Slam, followed by a gold medal at the 2016 European Championships in Kazan, Russia.

The pinnacle of her success came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she struck gold in the women's 52 kg category, becoming the first Kosovan athlete to win an Olympic medal.

Awards and Honors

Majlinda's accolades include:

Legacy and Impact

Majlinda Kelmendi's success has inspired a new generation of Kosovan athletes, paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps. Her achievements have also brought international recognition to Kosovo, a country that declared independence in 2008.

As a trailblazer in the world of judo, Majlinda's legacy extends beyond her impressive medal collection. She has become an icon, symbolizing the power of determination, hard work, and perseverance.

In a sport dominated by powerhouses like Japan and South Korea, Majlinda Kelmendi's rise to the top is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes around the world, inspiring them to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Inspirational Quotes

"I never thought I would become an Olympic champion, but I worked hard and believed in myself."

"Judo is not just a sport; it's a lifestyle. It teaches you discipline, perseverance, and respect."

Timeline
1991
Born in Kosovo
Majlinda Kelmendi was born on May 9, 1991, in Peć, Kosovo.
2009
European Champion
Kelmendi won her first European Championship title in 2009, in the 52kg category.
2012
Olympic Debut
Kelmendi made her Olympic debut at the 2012 London Olympics, competing in the 52kg category.
2016
Olympic Gold
Kelmendi won the gold medal in the 52kg category at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Kosovos first-ever Olympic medal.
2020
World Champion
Kelmendi won her third World Championship title in 2020, solidifying her position as one of the best judokas in the world.
Majlinda Kelmendi

Majlinda Kelmendi Quiz

Majlinda Kelmendi is a trailblazer for which aspect of sports in her country?

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FAQ
What is Majlinda Kelmendis most notable achievement in judo?
Majlinda Kelmendis most notable achievement in judo is winning the gold medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
How did Majlinda Kelmendis judo career start?
Majlinda Kelmendis judo career started when she began training at the age of 9 in her hometown of Peć, Kosovo.
What is Majlinda Kelmendis judo style?
Majlinda Kelmendis judo style is characterized by her aggressive and dynamic fighting style, which has earned her numerous titles and accolades.
Has Majlinda Kelmendi won any World Championship titles?
Yes, Majlinda Kelmendi has won two World Championship titles, in 2013 and 2014, in addition to her Olympic gold medal.
What is Majlinda Kelmendis career statistics in judo?
Majlinda Kelmendis career statistics in judo include over 20 international medals, 10 Grand Prix titles, and a reputation as one of the most dominant judokas of her generation.