Day one of the Podgorica Senior European Cup 2025 delivered a mix of familiar and fresh faces on the podium. While Türkiye dominated the medal standings, it was Serbia’s single gold that caught attention.
Few would have predicted Aleksandra Andric to triumph in the -70kg category, yet the 17-year-old Serbian judoka defied expectations, winning round after round in confidence. Her victory was not a stroke of luck but the result of relentless dedication and preparation.
Andric’s journey to gold was anything but easy. She overcame experienced judoka, including some regulars on the IJF World Tour, proving that she belongs. This triumph was no accident, it was part of a plan, a stepping stone for what she envisions for her future in judo, even as she completes her last year as a cadet. “I feel very happy because this is my first senior cup and I did a good job, so I am happy about that,” – Andric expressed after stepping off the podium. “I was confident but I knew that I would have hard fights. I trained, I practiced, and I trusted myself.” – she added.
While many judoka meticulously set short-term goals, Andric prefers a broader approach. Instead of chasing specific titles, she is committed to gaining as much experience as possible in cadet, junior, and senior divisions. Her philosophy is simple, focus on continuous improvement and let the results follow. “I don’t set goals, I just want to fight in all categories and gain experience, which is very important. I just want to improve my judo and it is all about that for me now.”
Despite her age, Andric has already shown that she can handle the pressures of senior-level competition. While she acknowledges that every tournament presents new challenges, her adaptability and composure make her a formidable competitor. Earlier this year, she entered a Junior European Cup, suffering an early exit but instead of dwelling on the loss, she saw it as a lesson. “I also did a junior cup this year and I lost in the first round but today makes up for it. I hope I am on the right path,” – she said with a smile.
With such a mature mindset and a determined attitude, Andric is a name to remember. As she takes her first steps into senior competition she claims her success to be no coincidence. It was not a lucky shot; it was earned through grit, discipline and an unshakable belief in herself.
Author: Szandra Szogedi