Nemanja Mikulic Crowned Montenegro’s Best Karateka of 2025

The Karate Federation of Montenegro has officially named **Nemanja Mikulic** as the best karateka in the country for 2025 in the kumite category. Mikulic, a competitor from **Karate Club Bijela**, has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the year, achieving significant results in various prestigious competitions.

In January 2025, Mikulic secured a commendable second place at the Premier World League held in **Paris**. His impressive performance continued at the **European Championship** in May, where he again finished in second place in **Yerevan**. Additionally, he earned a third individual place and a second-place finish as the lead competitor for the Montenegrin national team at the **Mediterranean Games** in **Spain**. His standout moment came during the **Balkan Games** in March, where he claimed the gold medal for team competition in **Budva**.

Among other notable achievements, the best female competitor was named as **Helena Backovic** from **Omladinac**. In the kata category, the top honors went to **Vlado Mijacic** from **Bar** and **Katarina Vlahovic** from **Iskra**. The younger competitors also shone brightly, with **Vuk Vucinic** and **Una Rakovic**, both from Omladinac, being recognized as the best in their category.

In terms of club performance, **Omladinac** has been acknowledged as the top karate club in Montenegro. The recognition also extended to outstanding coaching, with **Almir Cecunjanin** from **Bar** and **Nenad Vojinovic** from **Iskra Podgorica** receiving accolades for their contributions over the past year.

The prestigious **Golden Plaque of Karate Sport** was awarded to former national team athlete **Mario Hodzic**, a multiple medalist in European and world competitions. This recognition highlights Hodzic’s enduring impact on the sport and his contributions to karate in Montenegro.

The achievements of these athletes not only showcase their individual talents but also reflect the growing prominence of karate in Montenegro. As the nation continues to develop its sports programs, the successes of competitors like Mikulic and their respective clubs inspire future generations of karate practitioners.