HOO's athlete of the year prize, like last year, went to the owner of 2023 world and European medals, two-time world champion Barbara Matic (-70 kg).
The Matija Ljubek award, which the HOO awards to deserving sports people for a lifetime achievement, was given to the honorary president of the Croatian Judo Federation, Tomislav Čuljak.
The HOO ceremony was also attended by Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic line minister Nikolina Brnjac, representative of the president of parliament Žarko Tusek, member of the IOC Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic and numerous other dignitaries.
Barbara Matic continues to fly the flag of Croatian judo, not only on the World Judo Tour but across her home country, inspiring the next generation of judoka and sportswomen from many other disciplines. Congratulations to Barbara and to the Croatian Judo Federation.
Source: Mario Krvavac Photos: Jozo Čabraja (HOO)