Distria Shines in Podgorica, Wins Her Third European Title

Distria Krasniqi has achieved another major success. On Wednesday in Podgorica, Montenegro, Distria was crowned European judo champion. She won the European gold medal in the under-52-kilogram category.

This is Distria’s third European title. She won the first in 2021 in Lisbon and the second last year in Zagreb. She also has two European silver medals and two bronze medals.

In the final, Distria defeated the experienced Italian, Odette Giuffrida. She beat her by scoring two “Yuko”. 

Thanks to Distria, the 2025 European Championships have already been a success for Kosovo. She was the top seed in the category and made her way to the final with ease. 

First, she defeated Serbia’s Milica Nikoliq. The Serbian judoka was almost resigned against Distria from the start. She continually avoided the fight and received three penalties. Thus, the Kosovar judoka won by Ippon.

In the quarterfinals, Distria got past Dutch judoka Naomi Van Krevel. She scored a “Yuko” against her immediately and, after 1:05 minutes, also scored an Ippon with a masterful throw. 

Ariane Toro Soler from Spain was the 29-year-old’s opponent in the semifinal. Once again, Distria had complete control. After 1:21 minutes, she executed a superb throw for another Ippon victory.

As expected, Distria faced reigning world champion Giuffrida in the final.

Distria and Odette Giuffrida have faced each other a total of 12 times so far. Distria now has eight wins, while Giuffrida has four. Distria has won her last five bouts against the tricky Italian. Last year, she defeated her in the European Championships final and the Olympic Games semifinal. In 2023, she had beaten her in the European Championships semifinal.

The European gold is just the latest major achievement for Distria Krasniqi, who also has, among other honors, one Olympic gold medal and one silver medal.