Judoka Katryna Esposito named in Team Malta for Paris Olympics

Maltese judoka Katryna Esposito has become the second athlete that will be forming part of Team Malta for the Paris Olympics this month.

The Maltese Olympic Committee issued a statement to announce that the young judoka, winner of a gold medal at the 2023 GSSE, has been selected to form part of Team Malta in Paris.

“The Maltese Olympic Committee is pleased to announce that Judoka Katryna Esposito has been selected to form part of Team Malta at the forthcoming Paris 2024 Games,” the Maltese Olympic Committee said in a statement.

“Commonwealth Games and GSSE 2023 Medallist Esposito will be competing in the -48kgs Category. 

“Esposito was selected through the Universality Places programme assigned by the Olympic Games Tripartite Commission which has sole discretion on the choice of athlete but selection is based on the athlete’s international competitive experience, their technical level and the willingness to qualify for the Olympic Games by participating in the relevant qualifying events.”

Esposito has enjoyed an excellent build-up to the Games this year after winning a gold medal at the Commonwealth Championships that were held in Malta earlier this year.

In reaction to the selection, Esposito expressed her delight in being given the opportunity to form part of Team Malta at the Games.

“I am humbled with the honour and privilege to be part of Team Malta for the Paris Olympics 2024,” Esposito said on her facebook page.

“A lot has gone into this, however, a lot more is still to be done.

“I would like to thank the Maltese Olympic Committee, Malta Judo Federation, BeActive – SportMalta and Tigne Judo Club for their continued support behind the scenes. To the surgical team at MDH and physios at The MET Hub.

“A special thanks goes to my coach Aurelian Ciprian Fleisz for his dedication not only to myself but the whole team and other coaches and athletes for their support throughout the years.

“Lastly I would like to thank my family and closest friends who have provided me with unconditional support through this long process.

“I am forever grateful for this opportunity and hope to give my utmost for Malta.”

The other Maltese athlete that will be forming part of Team Malta in Paris is trap shooter Gianluca Chetcuti.