Recently, the Vjesnik team visited Dandy City and Sveti Ante to ask the community, “Who is your favourite Croatian athlete?”
The responses were a passionate reminder that in Croatia, sport is more than just entertainment. It’s emotion, national identity and pride.
We asked you, here are the most frequently mentioned Croatian athletes!
Luka Modrić
Often named as the greatest Croatian footballer of all time, Modrić’s graceful control of the midfield, World Cup heroics, and Ballon d’Or win have made him a legend.
Goran Ivanišević
From wild card to Wimbledon champion, Goran’s 2001 victory remains one of the most iconic moments in tennis and in Croatian sport.
Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipović
Known for his unforgettable performances in kickboxing and MMA. Fans continue to admire Cro Cop for his famous left high roundhouse kick, often referred to “right leg: hospital; left leg: cemetery.”
Davor Šuker
The Golden Boot winner at the 1998 World Cup, Šuker helped put Croatian football on the global map.
Janica Kostelić
One of the most decorated alpine skiers in history, Janica holds four Olympic gold medals and multiple World Cup titles.
Dražen Petrović
The shooting guard, taken too early, is still referred to as one of the greatest European players to enter the NBA.
Toni Kukoč
Another Croatian basketball legend, who made waves in the NBA as part of the legendary Chicago Bulls team alongside Michael Jordan.
Mate Parlov
A light heavyweight boxing Olympic gold medallist who was European and World Champion as an amateur and as a professional.
Blanka Vlašić
The high jump double world champion, indoor world champion and twice Olympic medallist, hold Croatia’s record today. Blanka remains one of Croatia’s most beloved female athletes.
Zvonimir Boban, Dejan Lovren, Marko Livaja, and Mark Viduka also received strong support from the community, each with their own style and loyal fan base.
Anyone we forgot? Who’s your pick? Click here to have your say!
Let us know in the comments and celebrate the legends who’ve made Croatia proud.
