Croatia – Like Her

Barbara Matić

Barbara Matić, born on December 3, 1994, in Split, Croatia, is a renowned judoka who has made significant contributions to the sport. With her exceptional skills and determination, she has achieved numerous accolades and has become a notable figure in women’s judo. In 2021, Matić reached the pinnacle of her career when she won the World Championships, earning the gold medal and confirming her status as one of the best judokas in the world. Matić’s triumph continued in 2022 when she defended her title and secured another gold medal at the World Championships. Her outstanding technical skills, strong spirit, and relentless determination have made her an inspiration to aspiring judokas worldwide.

CroatiaActivistJournalist

Marija Jurić Zagorka

Marija Jurić Zagorka, born on March 2, 1873, in the village of Negovec, was a Croatian journalist, writer, and women’s rights activist. Known by her pen name Zagorka, she was the first female journalist in Croatia and among the most read Croatian writers. Her life was full of challenges and triumphs, and her influence on society and women’s history is undeniable.

CroatiaSwimmer

Djurdjica Bjedov

Đurđa “Đurđica” Bjedov, born on April 5, 1947, in Split, Yugoslavia (present-day Croatia), became the only Yugoslav Olympic champion in swimming. She stunned the world at the 1968 Olympics by winning gold in the 100m breaststroke and breaking the Olympic record. Bjedov’s success continued with a silver medal in the 200m breaststroke, and she was honored as the Yugoslav Athlete of the Year in 1968. After retiring, she became a swimming coach and has left a lasting legacy in the sport.

CroatiaSkier

Janica Kostelić

Janica Kostelić is widely regarded as one of the greatest female ski racers of all time. Coming from an athletic family, she started skiing at a young age and quickly became successful in junior competitions. Despite setbacks and injuries, Kostelić achieved remarkable success at the Olympic Games and World Championships, solidifying her place in the history books. Her impact on women’s skiing and her contributions to Croatian sports are enduring.

CroatiaDiscus ThrowerTrack & Field

Sandra Perković

Sandra Perković, born on 21 June 1990, is a Croatian discus thrower who has left an indelible mark in the world of athletics. With a distinguished career that showcases her exceptional talent, determination, and resilience, she has become a prominent figure not only in Croatia but also on the global stage.

CroatiaHigh JumperTrack & Field

Blanka Vlašić

Blanka Vlašić is a Croatian former high jump athlete who achieved great success in her career. She is a two-time world champion and double Olympic medalist, and her personal best of 2.08 meters ranks her as one of the top female jumpers of all time. Vlašić’s legacy as a trailblazer in women’s high jump is an inspiration to athletes worldwide.