Heydarov and Trautmann named Europe's Best of the Year

As part of the European Judo Championships held in Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, a gala night took place to honor the continent’s top performers based on the achievements of 2024.

Azerbaijan’s Olympic champion Hidayat Heydarov was named “Male Judoka of the Year.” The award was presented to him by European Judo Union (EJU) President László Tóth.

The official EJU website wrote:

"This athlete first made a name for himself by winning European and World titles as a cadet and junior. Over time, he showed unwavering determination to fulfill his potential. In 2024, he claimed his fourth European title, followed by World and Olympic gold medals. Achieving such success in a single year is a rare feat. This remarkable accomplishment belongs to Azerbaijani judoka Hidayat Heydarov."

The award for “Male Coach of the Year in Europe” went to Richard Trautmann, head coach and performance director of Azerbaijan’s national team. The award was presented by EJU Sports Director Agron Kuka.

The EJU website stated the following about Trautmann:

"In 2024, this coach led his athletes to two European, two World, and two Olympic titles – an extraordinary achievement for any nation. As the leader of the Azerbaijani team, he can take pride in both the outstanding success of his athletes and his personal accomplishments in this Olympic year."

It should be noted that earlier this year, during a ceremony held in Paris in February, both Hidayat Heydarov and Richard Trautmann were also named the world’s best in their respective categories.