European champion Ivanishchenko dies at 28

Four-time European judo champion Yelena Ivanishchenko has died in “tragic” circumstances at the age of 28, the Russian Judo Federation said today without explaining the cause of death.

Ivanishchenko competed in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in the +78 kilogramme event, and was European champion in 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2012.

“Her victories will remain forever etched in history, as Lena herself will live forever in the memories of all who knew her,” the Russian Judo Federation said in a statement.

Ivanishchenko also won the 2008 silver medal and two bronze medals in the 2007 and 2011 World Judo Championships.