Two-time Olympian, double World Champion, and World bronze medallist
Barbara Matić was born 3 December 1994 in Split, Croatia. She is in the -70kg weight category in Judo. Barbara demonstrated her exceptional skills by claiming the title of World Champion in both 2021, held in Budapest, and 2022, held in Tashkent. Additionally, she secured a bronze medal at the 2023 World Championships in Doha. Her outstanding performance also earned her a 5th finish at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
She also participated in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Barbara secured bronze medals at the European Championships in 2014, 2017, and 2019. She was double Junior European and Junior World Champion in 2013 and 2014. Barbara has claimed 1 Masters (silver), 11 Grand Slam (1 gold, 6 silver, 4 bronze), and 11 (4 gold, 1 silver, 6 bronze) Grand Prix medals in her Judo career so far. Barbara has ranked number 1 on the IJF World Ranking List on more than one occasion.
Can you tell us about how you first got started in judo and what motivated you to pursue judo at an elite level?
I began training in judo at a tender age of less than 7 years old. The training sessions were held at my elementary school, which also offered ballet classes. Being a bit on the chubbier side, I couldn’t envision myself dancing in a dress, so I made the decision to try out judo instead. As I started competing, I began winning medals, gradually climbing the ladder towards the elite level.
As an elite judo athlete, how do you handle the pressure of competition and maintain your focus during important matches?
Dealing with pressure was challenging in my earlier years, but now I find it a bit easier. Right before a competition, I experience the worst nerves, but somehow I manage to let go and simply give my best while enjoying the sport of judo.
Can you describe any specific mental preparation techniques or strategies you use before important matches or tournaments?
I don’t have any specific mental rituals. I did work with a sports psychologist, and through that, I learned how to stay focused and avoid getting caught up in irrelevant thoughts just before a fight.
How do you maintain a strong and positive mindset during challenging training sessions and competitions?
I believe that mindset can be trained. Initially, it can be challenging, but with time, it becomes more natural and easier to achieve.
How do you stay focused and maintain concentration during high-pressure situations or when facing formidable opponents?
Similar to what I mentioned earlier, it boils down to the same approach I take in previous situations.
Can you describe the level of intensity and rivalry between you and your teammate who competes in the same weight category as you?
Croatia, being a small country, doesn’t have as many judokas as some of the larger European countries. Consequently, the level of rivalry among teammates isn’t as pronounced. We strive to support and train together, aiming for collective improvement rather than focusing solely on individual success.
How do you manage the rivalry and competition between you and your teammate while maintaining a supportive and cohesive team environment?
As I mentioned earlier, our shared objective is to become better as a team. Even if I don’t achieve a favourable outcome, I still want my teammate to succeed. Naturally, there’s disappointment in losing, but we celebrate our teammates’ victories wholeheartedly.
How does it feel to have achieved the number one ranking on the IJF World Ranking List in your weight category, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally?
I feel an immense sense of happiness and pride. Holding the number one spot in my category for two consecutive years is an accomplishment I greatly cherish. It serves as both personal and professional motivation for me to maintain this position for as long as possible.
How does it feel to have won the World Championship two years in a row? What do you attribute your success to during those years?
The first time was beyond words. The second time felt even more surreal, to be honest. I believe my success during those years can be attributed to my unwavering effort, hard work, and persistence throughout all these years finally paying off.
Winning a Bronze medal at this year’s World Senior Championships in Doha is an incredible achievement. Could you share your emotions and reflections on that experience?
I was even a little bit sad because I felt really good, and I thought I could make it to the finals. However, after the bronze medal fight, the coach told me not to be sad but to be happy. He reminded me that just two weeks before the World Championships, I didn’t even know if I would be able to compete due to a knee injury. Now, a month later, I’m really happy to have stood on the World Championship podium for three consecutive years.
How did you mentally prepare yourself after winning two consecutive World Championships to perform at your best in the most recent World Senior Championships in Doha?
This year, I didn’t have any pressure, precisely because of that knee injury. Others didn’t expect much from me either, considering I got injured just a month before the world championships. That worked in my favour, and I focused solely on the first fight, hoping my knee wouldn’t hurt. Once I realized my knee was fine, I relaxed and approached the subsequent fights without any apprehension.
What lessons did you learn from the World Senior Championships in Doha that you believe will help you in your future competitions and training?
I learned that our bodies are capable of enduring much more than we think.
How do you handle both success and setbacks in your judo career, and what keeps you motivated to continue pushing forward?
I believe it’s crucial not to let success lift you too high but rather serve as validation that you’re on the right path. It’s a reminder that your hard work and dedication are paying off, encouraging you to keep pushing forward. Conversely, setbacks should be seen as opportunities to learn and grow. Identifying the mistakes and making timely corrections is essential.
Have you ever had to make sacrifices in your personal life for the sake of your judo career? If so, how do you cope with those sacrifices and find a sense of balance?
Maintaining balance is key in all aspects of life. I managed to spend time with friends and enjoy social activities, but I had to be mindful of when I could afford it. Naturally, I couldn’t indulge in the same amount of leisure time as my friends did. However, I don’t consider it as sacrificing much. In fact, I believe I’ve gained far more through my dedication to sports.
How do you handle the pressure of maintaining personal relationships while being away for extended periods for international competitions and training camps?
If you’re surrounded by people who genuinely love, support, respect, and appreciate you, there shouldn’t be excessive pressure. I won’t claim it’s easy, but having such people by your side makes it much more manageable.
How do you find time for self-care and relaxation amidst a busy training and competition schedule? What activities or practices do you find rejuvenating and essential for your overall well-being?
After graduating from university, I have more free time and can prioritize self-care. Since my sole focus now is on training, I find solace in simple activities like enjoying a cup of coffee by the sea, reading a soothing book, and experimenting with various facial and skincare treatments. Additionally, I recently started practicing yoga, which has proven to be beneficial for my well-being.
What advice would you give to aspiring judo athletes who are looking to reach the elite level and compete internationally?
Don’t fear anything, believe in yourself, and derive joy from what you do and what brings you happiness. Remember that nothing is impossible.
Qualifying for the Olympic Games is a remarkable achievement. Can you share the emotions and significance of representing your country in not just one, but two Olympic Games?
It’s truly an indescribable feeling. Although I don’t have an Olympic medal yet, I am very proud of the fact that I have already represented my country twice at the Olympic Games. So many people around the world train hard, and everyone dreams of participating in the most prestigious sports competition, the Olympic Games. Those moments are truly memorable.
The Tokyo 2021 Olympics saw you secure an impressive 5th place in judo. How did you feel about your performance, and what were the key factors that contributed to your success in that competition?
I entered the Olympic Games as a World Champion, and there were high expectations from everyone around me that I would win a medal there as well. Unfortunately, I came close to achieving it, and I felt deeply saddened and in tears. However, I made a decision afterward that I would dedicate my training to the Olympic Games in Paris, making it my main goal. Whatever results come in the meantime, whether great or not, I know what my ultimate goal is.
Looking ahead to the 2024 Paris Olympics, what are your expectations and goals for the upcoming Games? How do you plan to build upon your experiences from previous Olympic appearances?
My primary wish is to qualify for Paris and compete in my third Olympic Games, with the aim of winning a medal. I will set aside any pressure and expectations, focusing solely on each challenge as it comes, fight by fight, without thinking too far ahead.
