Akil Gjakova

Akil Gjakova was born on January 4, 1996 in Peja, Kosovo. He stepped onto the judo mat for the first time at age six — and never looked back. Training at the renowned Ippon Judo Club under the guidance of legendary coach Driton Kuka, Akil honed his craft in a country where judo is more than a sport: it is a source of national pride.

Competing in the 73kg category, Akil made history as Kosovo's first male European Judo Champion at the 2023 European Championships in Montpellier, France. That gold medal marked a turning point — proof that the Gjakova name carries weight far beyond Kosovo's borders.

“Every time I step on the mat, I carry my family, my coach, and my country with me.”

A two-time Olympian — representing Kosovo at both Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 — Akil has been named Kosovo's Athlete of the Year five times, a testament to his consistency and impact on the national sporting landscape.

“Judo taught me that strength is not just physical — it is the discipline to get up every time you fall.”

His sister, Nora Gjakova, is an Olympic gold medalist — winning the 57kg title at Tokyo 2020. Together, the Gjakova siblings represent one of the most remarkable families in world judo, both forged in the same dojo and driven by the same dream.