Slovak two-time Olympian and World Games gold medallist Denisa Barankova has died at the age of 24 after being struck by a car in Bratislava. The incident occurred on Osuskeho Street in Petržalka on 21 June. Barankova was rushed to Kramare Hospital, where she passed away the following day.
Details of the Crash
According to reports, a man driving a vehicle collided with an 11-year-old girl and Barankova after allegedly confusing the accelerator with the brake. The young girl sustained chest and head injuries along with a fractured femur, while Barankova suffered fatal injuries. Slovak police confirmed that an investigation is underway.
Barankova's Career and Achievements
Barankova was a gifted archer who made history for her country, becoming the first Slovak athlete to qualify for the World Games. She represented Slovakia at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. During her brief yet distinguished career, she secured an individual recurve gold medal at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China.
Reaction from the Sports Community
A spokesperson for the World Games said: "The International World Games Association is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Denisa Hurban Barankova, gold medallist in Field Archery – Recurve at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu. She was 24 years old. Denisa was one of the brightest talents in archery. A two-time Olympian and proud representative of Slovakia, she embodied the spirit of The World Games – excellence, passion, and dedication."
The spokesperson added: "Her gold medal in Chengdu last August was a moment of pure brilliance that the entire The World Games family celebrated alongside her, and it will forever remain part of the legacy of TWG 2025. Her loss, under such sudden and tragic circumstances, has left the global sports community in shock and grief."
Family Devastated
Barankova's husband, Vladimir Hurban Jr, and her family have been left utterly devastated by the tragedy. The International World Games Association extended its deepest condolences to her husband, her family, her teammates, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
