Katharina Haecker

Biography

Katharina Haecker, born in Hamburg to an Australian father and a German mother, discovered her passion for judo at age six. Initially rising through the junior ranks in Germany, she took a break from the sport after high school to explore Australia—a place she instantly felt at home. Back in Germany, Katharina resumed her judo career under the guidance of her coach and now partner, Alexander Luedeke. Transitioning to a higher weight class, she quickly adapted and began representing Australia. She made her mark by winning the 2014 Oceania Championships and securing her spot at the Rio 2016 Olympics. While her Olympic journey began with a promising win, she faced challenges in subsequent rounds. Katharina’s dedication and unwavering love for judo have been key to her success, despite feeling that she lacked natural talent. Her hard work has paid off, earning her multiple medals in international competitions, including the Grand Prix and Commonwealth Games. As she aims for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Katharina draws inspiration from past judo greats and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in her sport. Whether training with teammates or competing on the world stage, her passion and commitment shine through.