Name: Daria Bilodid
Country: Ukraine
Weight Category: -48kg
Points: 6890
There seems to be nothing this 19 year-old cannot do. Taking her second European and World titles in 2019 were sensational accomplishments in themselves, but this isn’t enough for Daria.
Going in to the Olympic year, Daria will finally get her chance to take the title she yearns for the most. It never ceases to amaze the fans, spectators and mat-side experts that this young athlete conquers tournament after tournament and mastering her techniques to the point she has become seemingly unbeatable. Her opponents, especially recent Masters title winner, Distria KRASNIQI (KOS) are chasing her coat tails in a bid for that #1 spot, and there is still plenty of time before the Olympic Games in Tokyo to make up the small gap, but the real question is: can they beat her on the tatami?
Seeing as she has led the category for some time now, there is a strong chance she will realise her dream in Tokyo and become Olympic Champion at only 19 years old, but then again, this is judo and anything can happen. Congratulations on a successful year!
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen