After a long period of injuries, I was finally able to do what I love most again: compete. At the Austria Open 2026 in Innsbruck, I made my return to international competition — and in a new weight category: -63 kg.

The Austria Open is known as a highly competitive event on the European circuit, attracting strong athletes from across Europe and beyond. For me, however, this tournament was about more than ranking points or medals. It was about stepping back onto the mats.

Moving to -63 kg brought a different physical and tactical dynamic. Different timing, different distance management, different power exchanges. After months of rehabilitation and carefully rebuilding my training, this was my first real test under competitive pressure.

In the first round, I was immediately drawn against a strong Italian athlete who eventually reached the final of the tournament. Not the easiest comeback match — but precisely the kind of challenge that pushes you to grow. The pace was high, the intensity real, and every exchange demanded total focus.

Even if the official result doesn’t fully capture the day, I gained a lot.
 I competed again at international level.
 I felt the adrenaline of competition again.
 I regained confidence in my body.

Coming back from injury is not just a physical process — it is a mental one. Trusting your preparation, trusting your body, and daring to compete again is a victory in itself.

I am incredibly grateful to be back on the mats. This is only the beginning.

Sponsored by:

NihonSport (JC_Alicu), United Consumers, CurrentWerkt, Toppodo, ELVOU

A Memorabel Training Camp in Norway

Last week, I had the opportunity to take part in an exceptional training camp in Oslo, Norway. Together with a select group of international athletes from Denmark and Iceland, we were invited by the Norwegian national team for an intensive and inspiring week.

Under the guidance of Norwegian national coach Marco Scheiterbauer, we trained twice a day throughout the week. The sessions were demanding, high-level, and extremely valuable, thanks to the quality of both the training structure and the international training partners. Outside the dojo, we made time for recovery walks, enjoyed the snow, explored Oslo, and even managed to do some skiing—an experience that added a unique Scandinavian character to the camp.

If I were to summarize this training stage in one word, it would undoubtedly be memorable. Not only because of the physical and technical gains, but also because of the warm hospitality and openness of our Scandinavian hosts. The atmosphere was professional, yet relaxed, and it created an environment where learning and development came naturally.

An Unexpected Meeting: Jens Stoltenberg

One moment during the week stood out in a very different way. During a physical training session, I found myself training alongside Jens Stoltenberg. Known worldwide for his career in international relations—most notably as former Prime Minister of Norway and Secretary General of NATO—seeing him train with the same discipline and focus was unexpectedly inspiring.

As someone pursuing a path in international law, the encounter felt symbolic. Stoltenberg’s career reflects the importance of dialogue, resilience, and long-term vision in an international context. Experiencing that parallel—him in international relations and myself in international law—while both engaged in physical training, reinforced the idea that discipline, consistency, and global perspective transcend professions. Whether in diplomacy, law, or elite sport, progress is built through dedication and respect for the process.

Looking Back

This training camp offered far more than just sport-specific development. It was a week of cultural exchange, personal reflection, and renewed motivation. Norway left a lasting impression—both on and off the mat—and this is a training stage that will remain with me for a long time.

VSO De Pyler Workshop

This year, I once again had the opportunity to give an inspiring workshop to the students of VSO De Pyler. The theme of their project was "health and nutrition," and as an elite athlete, I was able to share my experiences and insights with them. In addition to the presentation, I also led two taekwondo clinics.

It was wonderful to inspire the students through sports, but the experience was even more valuable because I was able to contribute to raising awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Good nutrition and sufficient exercise together form the foundation for a healthy future. What a wonderful experience to share my passion for sports and health in this way!

Thank you, Oscar Smeets, for helping to make this possible!