Securing the gold medal in the women's 63 kg division at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris solidified the standing of Andreja Leški within the international judo community. Born in 1997 in Koper, Slovenia, this judoka spent years competing at the highest levels of global martial arts, frequently navigating the competitive landscapes of European and world championship events.
Early Competitive Appearances
Leški began establishing her presence on the mat through consistent participation in major international tournaments. Her initial experience included the 2017 European Championships in Warsaw, Poland, followed by participation in the 2017 and 2018 World Judo Championships. These early years provided the foundation for her technical development and familiarization with top-tier opponents in the 63 kg weight category.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Progression to World Podiums
The year 2021 proved to be a pivotal point in her career. She earned a bronze medal at the 2021 World Masters in Doha and a bronze at the European Championships in Lisbon. By June of that same year, she reached the final of the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, where she claimed a silver medal after a match against Clarisse Agbegnenou of France. She continued this momentum at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, where she secured another bronze medal.
Sustained Excellence and Final Achievements
Leški maintained a high level of performance through 2023, where she returned to the World Championships in Doha to secure her second career silver medal, again facing defeat in the final against Agbegnenou. Following her consistent appearances at the 2022 and 2024 World Championships, she reached the pinnacle of her athletic career in Paris. Her victory in the 2024 Summer Olympics represents the culmination of a career marked by persistent engagement with the most demanding stages of the sport.
Fast facts
- Born: 1997, Koper, Slovenia
- Sport: Judo
- Weight Class: 63 kg
- 2024 Olympic Result: Gold Medal
- World Championship Medals: Two Silver
- Citizenship: Slovenia
Questions readers ask
What was Andreja Leški's primary weight category?
She competed exclusively in the women's 63 kg division.
Did Leški win a medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics?
Yes, she won the gold medal in the women's 63 kg event in Paris.
Achievements
- Competed at 2017 European Judo Championships – women's 63 kg, 2017 World Judo Championships – women's 63 kg and 2018 World Judo Championships – women's 63 kg
- Discipline: judo
