Born on 17th August 1992 in Pejë, Nora Gjakova competed at -57 kg, where she established herself as one of the most consistent and resilient athletes of her generation. Her greatest achievement came in 2021, when she was crowned Olympic champion, fulfilling the dream of a lifetime. That same year, she also claimed a bronze medal at the world championships, further confirming her place among the sport’s elite.
Her career record speaks volumes: European champion in 2018, silver medallist at the 2019 European Games, and a five-time European bronze medallist. Beyond medals and rankings, however, Gjakova embodied perseverance, humility and dedication, values that helped shape Kosovo into one of the strongest judo nations in the world.
At the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, she was named flag bearer for the Kosovo delegation alongside her brother, Akil Gjakova. It was a powerful symbol of both family and national pride, reflecting her leadership role within the team and her importance to Kosovan sport.
Announcing her retirement, Nora shared a deeply personal message that captured the essence of her journey, “Thank you judo. Today, on the last day of 2025, I’m ending a big chapter that until now has been all my life. I am officially ending my competitive career as an athlete. I grew up and breathed with the sport of judo and I’m happy that I lived my dream.
The challenges, losses and victories will remain unforgettable memories for me, because they shaped me into one of the most successful athletes and, above all, into the person I am today.
I’m deeply grateful for this beautiful journey and feel fulfilled by everything I have accomplished throughout these 23 years of my sports career. Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey. To new beginnings and dreams; happy new year 2026!”
Nora Gjakova was part of an exceptional Kosovan team that, at its peak, included three active Olympic champions, an historic achievement that transformed the country’s sporting identity. Today, the responsibility of carrying that legacy forward rests with Distria Krasniqi. Currently world number one at -52 kg, Krasniqi is certain to continue inspiring the next generation of Kosovan judoka.
For Nora Gjakova, a new page now begins. What comes next is hers to write but there is little doubt she will succeed with the same determination and integrity that defined her competitive career. The Gjakova name remains present on the international circuit through her brother Akil, a silver medallist at last year’s Paris Grand Slam, ensuring that the family’s connection to elite judo continues.
Thank you, Nora, for the unforgettable moments you gave to judo and to its fans around the world. Your legacy will endure far beyond medals and podia. We wish you every success on the road ahead.