Cypriot athlete Marina Hadjikosta addresses racism after international success

Seventeen-year-old Cypriot discus thrower Marina Hadjikosta recently spoke out against racist abuse directed at her following her bronze medal win at the U20 World Championships in Oregon. Born in Limassol on February 8, 2009, Hadjikosta was adopted at birth by Simoni Papaleontiou Hadjikosta and Savvas Hadjikosta. While she identifies as a proud Cypriot, she revealed that she has been subjected to unacceptable discriminatory comments regarding her mixed heritage, as her biological parents are from Poland and Nigeria.

In a candid social media statement, the European U18 champion and U20 world medalist emphasized that her identity and love for Cyprus are defined by her achievements and humanity rather than her biology or skin color. She called upon state authorities to take decisive action against racism to ensure an inclusive environment for all citizens. Hadjikosta continues her education at the Laniteio Athletic Lyceum, noting that her upbringing and family history, including her mother’s roots as a refugee from Famagusta, are deeply intertwined with the history of Cyprus. She remains committed to representing the nation in future international competitions.