Who is the best handball player in the world?

Home » blog » Who is the best handball player in the world?

Handball legends – who are they? Names written in golden letters in history, athletes whose skills and charisma inspire millions. Great handball players become symbols of their eras, dictating new rules of the game. Statistics, technique, leadership qualities – every factor plays a decisive role. Some have shone in clubs, others have led national teams to world triumphs. So who has left the deepest mark in the history of handball?

You can assess who the best handball player is according to different criteria: personal awards, influence on the game, victories in major tournaments. Among the contenders are legendary players who have won titles, set records and changed the very philosophy of the game. Let’s find out what criteria determine the greatest player and who is among the top handball players of all time.

Main criteria for evaluating the best handball player

Handball players who have won world, Olympic, European and club titles are the elite of the sport. Their achievements go beyond personal honours – they have an impact on the entire handball world, setting new records and raising the game to unprecedented heights.

Here are the key factors that define an athlete’s greatness:

Olympic gold is the high point of any handball player’s career. Only the best athletes get a chance to compete at the Olympics. And winning the finals becomes a confirmation of their outstanding level. For example, Nikola Karabatic and his participation in three Olympics is a living example of dominance at the world level.
World and European Championships are titles that define a player’s stability and his influence on the international stage. Victories in these tournaments speak of the athlete’s high competitiveness over a long period of time. Legendary players, such as Ivano Balic, have repeatedly proved their uniqueness in matches against the strongest teams on the planet.
Club tournaments – EHF Champions League, national championships, EHF Cup Winners’ Cup – this is where the true masters of tactics and technique show themselves. Club level legends don’t always become the best in the world, but their contribution to the development of the sport cannot be denied.

Statistics and efficiency

Stability in play is a key indicator of skill. The best players are characterised by high efficiency, passing, defence and playmaking skills. The main parameters by which the greatest players are evaluated:

Total number of goals in a career – world handball record holders score hundreds and sometimes thousands of goals, creating history. Kirill Lazarov, is the best sniper of the World Championships. He has held this record for more than ten years.
Shooting percentageis a measure of accuracy and efficiency. Even the most talented players lose the ball, but the great ones turn every moment into a goal.
Assists and defensive actions – great handball players not only score, but also create chances for their partners. Ivano Balic is known for his amazing vision of the court, allowing him to create chances even from the most difficult situations.

Influence on handball tactics and development

The greatest players don’t just win matches – they change the game itself. Influencing tactics, a new approach to positional attack, improving defence – these are the innovations that make handball players truly great.

Individual style of play – players with a unique technique often set trends in world handball. Mikel Hansen is known for his inimitable throwing style, which is copied by young players around the world;
leadership qualities – legendary athletes inspire their partners, lead the team to victories and become true captains on the court. Nikola Karabatic is a shining example of a leader who motivates the team and maintains a high level of play even in the most difficult situations;
changing the game philosophy – rare handball players are able to influence the evolution of tactics. Goalkeepers introduce new strategies, thanks to which teams win the most important tournaments. Thierry Omeyer has proven time and time again that the goalkeeper can be a key figure in determining the outcome of matches.

Ranking of the best handball players

The list of the best handball players is based on their achievements, contribution to the sport and impact on the game. These legends have left an indelible mark on the history of handball.

Top 5 best players of all time:

Nikola Karabatic – recognised three times as the best player in the world, twice Olympic champion, four times world champion. One of the most versatile handball players, able to dominate in attack and defence.
Mikel Hansen – one of the most prolific scorers in history, leader of the Danish national team, winner of three World Player of the Year titles. He is known for his unique shooting technique and accuracy at the end of the attack.
Ivano Balic – unrivalled playmaker, twice the best handball player in the world, leader of the Croatian national team. Characterised by his unconventional style of play, excellent technique and ability to read the game several steps ahead.
Kirill Lazarov – absolute record holder in the number of goals at the World Championships, leader of the Macedonian national team, one of the most productive players in the history of handball.
Thierry Omeyer – one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of handball. Five-time world champion, two-time Olympic champion, multiple Champions League winner. Distinguished for his phenomenal reaction and ability to stop the most difficult throws.

Each of these athletes proved their excellence at the world level. Winning a huge number of titles and changing the game itself.

Olympic handball champions

Handball at the Olympic Games is the peak of a career for any professional athlete. Only a select few get the opportunity to compete for gold on the world stage. History has known teams that have dominated for decades, leaving an indelible mark on world sport:

France are a recognised dominant force in the 21st century. Victories at the 2008, 2012 and 2021 Olympics cemented their status as the leading handball nation. Karabatic and Omeyer have symbolised the success of the French national team.
Denmark are the triumphants of the 2016 Olympic Games. Thanks to the outstanding play of Mikel Hansen, the Danish national team showed unprecedented strength, winning their first Olympic gold medal.
Germany are the 2004 champions, known for their tactical discipline and physical power. The team managed to overcome all opponents, proving their superiority on the world stage.

These teams were successful at the Olympic Games and brought innovative tactics to handball that influenced the development of the game in the future. They had some of the most decorated handball players in the world and made a huge contribution to the development of world handball.

Conclusion

Deciding who is the best handball player is not easy. Some shone in attack, others dominated in defence, others changed the style of play. History knows dozens of outstanding athletes, but only a few deserve the title of great.

Every fan chooses their own favourite, but one thing is certain: handball will continue to produce new legends, and the search for the best of the best will never end.

EHF Champions League: a recap of the most prestigious club tournament in European handball

The EHF Champions League is the premier event in European handball, where the continent’s best teams face each other every year. Powerful shots, frenzied tactics and an unspeakable atmosphere ensure that millions of fans around the world follow every match.

History of the EHF Champions League: from the first matches to Europe’s most important tournament

The EHF Champions League has played a major role in popularising handball across Europe, especially in the East. The tournaments have attracted huge spectator attention, created a unique atmosphere and enthralled thousands of fans. Thanks to the increasing number of TV and internet broadcasts, the number of spectators of the final matches has steadily increased, which has contributed to the further development of handball and attracted new handball fans.

Becoming

The EHF Champions League saw the light of day in 1993, replacing the old format of the European Champions Cup. In the early years, only a few top clubs participated in the tournament, but its popularity grew rapidly. By the 2000s, the competition had become the place where the best players from all over Europe gathered. As the format changed over the years, the number of participants increased and the tournament grew to 32 teams, allowing representatives from different countries to compete for the right to be called the best.

Sponsors such as Velux played an important role in its development, as they supported the competition for a long time, adding financial stability and prestige. In the 2010s, the league gained the status of the world’s biggest handball event, with thousands of fans in the Lanxess Arena in Cologne.

EHF Champions League game rules: tournament structure and key features

Major changes in tournament rules have had a major impact on the play and spectacle of the matches. There have been numerous adjustments over the past 10 years, including changes to the format of the matches, which have become more dynamic and fair for all participants. The new rules for the teams have led to more entertainment, which is especially reflected in the knockout stages, where the competition has become more intense and exciting.

What you need to know about the EHF Champions League rules

The competition consists of several stages, each of which is unique. First, there is the group stage, where 16 teams are divided into groups. Each team plays home and away matches, ensuring a level playing field and a unique atmosphere for fans. The best representatives are removed from the groups and the play-off phase begins, a true battle of titans in which there is no margin for error.

The final stage is called the Final Four and takes place in one location: Cologne (Germany). There, the fate of the cup is decided and every year fans flock to the Lanxess Arena to witness the most spectacular match of the season. The teams taking part in the final show their best, as winning the EHF Champions League means not only prestige, but also a place in the history of world handball.

The EHF Champions League participants: who dominates the European stage?

Top teams play a key role in the development of young talent. The academies of clubs like Barcelona and PSG actively invest in the development of their young players and create the best conditions for their training and growth. Youth teams receive professional training and follow well-thought-out training plans, allowing young handball players to improve their skills and prepare for adult tournaments.

In addition, top clubs support young athletes on their way to the top team, giving them the opportunity to compete and gain experience at the highest level. This support helps talents move to the next level with confidence and become part of the elite clubs, ready to compete for the EHF Champions League title in the future.

Top EHF Champions League teams and their achievements

Over the years, the tournament has been dominated by clubs such as Barcelona, Veszprém, Paris Saint-Germain and Cologne. Barcelona are multiple champions and have won the cup more than 10 times. Their success is based on a combination of powerful attack, tactical flexibility and experienced coaches like Javier Pascual, who has led the team to multiple victories.

Hungary’s Veszprem is also among the frontrunners. Their road to the top has been long, but thanks to the support of sponsor MOL Group and the great play of star players like Mate Lekai, they have managed to reach the final several times and establish themselves as one of the best handball teams in Europe.

We also cannot leave out Montpellier, which unexpectedly beat all favourites and became champions in 2018. This success proved that the EHF Champions League is full of surprises, where even the strongest teams can lose to lesser-known opponents.

EHF Champions League highlights: unexpected twists and legendary matches

The EHF Champions League has always been known for its legendary matches and the colourful players who have made their names in the tournament’s history. Some matches have become true classics thanks to the players’ incredible battles, tactics and skills. For example, the 2015 final between Barcelona and Veszprem is forever remembered by fans for its incredible intrigue and dramatic outcome.

How final matches attract media attention

The final matches of the EHF Champions League invariably attract large audiences thanks to quality TV broadcasts and active cooperation with the international media. Viewing figures for the matches have risen significantly in recent years, demonstrating the growing interest in the tournament. Many major TV channels, such as Eurosport and Sky Sports, broadcast these matches, helping to make handball more popular and attract new viewers.

The handball top

The EHF Champions League is a challenge for every team. Winning this competition is every handball club’s dream, because it means not only winning the cup, but also being recognised by the entire handball community. This tournament helps handball develop, attract new audiences and make the sport more popular in countries where it is not yet so well known.

Every EHF Champions League match is a spectacle that makes fans anxious, happy and sad along with the teams. Follow the tournament, support your favourite clubs and enjoy the finest moments that only European handball at the highest level can offer.

April 1, 2025

Russian handball players: their eye-popping victories and legacy

Russian handball players have always been a symbol of determination, strength and sportsmanship, making them important figures on the international stage. Handball in Russia symbolises national pride and the will to win. Russian athletes are known for their extraordinary performances and incredible endurance on the court. The Russian handball school is rightly considered one of the best in the world thanks to its unique training method that has produced great world champions.

The best Russian handball players of all time

When talking about the best Russian handball players of all time, it is impossible not to mention the names that have left their mark on the history of world handball:

Andrey Lavrov – the only handball player in the world to be a three-time Olympic champion (1992, 2000, 2004).
Dmitry Torgovanov, a reliable defender and captain of the national team, has always stood out for his tactical competence and strength. His ability to block opponents’ shots and lead the team was one of the key factors in the Russian team’s success on the international stage.
Alexei Rastvortsev, an outstanding left-back, is remembered for his speed and aggressive style of play. His skills allowed the Russian team to quickly go on the attack and find weak spots in the opponent’s defence, which more than once resulted in victories in the most difficult matches.

His career is full of highlights and undisputed achievements, including victories at the European and World Championships. Russian handball players set the bar of sportsmanship so high that they became role models for many generations of athletes. These people did not just win: they changed the perception of the discipline and introduced new strategies and tactics.

More on Russian handball legends

Russian handball legends like Andrey Lavrov, Vasily Kudinov, Dmitry Torgovanovanov and Alexei Rastrovrtsev are known for their heroic actions on the court and their incredible dedication to the sport. The athletes were characterised not only by their physical strength, but also by their strong spirit.

The legendary match against Sweden at the 1996 Olympics became a symbol of the unbreakable will of the Russian players:

Andrei Lavrov, the goalkeeper, was impenetrable. At critical moments, he performed miracles by fending off crucial shots. His confidence inspired the whole team to fight until the end.
Vasily Kudinov, the team’s leader, took responsibility at key moments. His powerful shots and penetrations into the Swedish defence
tilted the match in Russia’s favour.
Defender Dmitry Torgovanov blocked shots and intercepted passes, disrupting Swedish attacks. His actions helped keep the score close.
Alexei Rastvortsev, with his aggressive style of play, masterfully exploited every counter-attack, creating chances for the team.

The match became a symbol of victory over a strong opponent and their own weaknesses. The Russian team proved that strength and cohesion can lead to victory.

The Russian handball school: how champions are trained

The organisation is known for its unique training methods, making it one of the best in the world. Specialised handball schools have been established in Volgograd and Togliatti, where coaches such as Levon Hakobyan and Vladimir Maximov have developed training methods aimed at all-round athlete development.

The following methods are actively used at the Olympic Training Centre:

Intensive physical activity: high-energy exercises aimed at developing strength, endurance and speed.
Teamwork: much attention is paid to developing cooperation skills between players, which helps to improve team play.
Mental resilience: special training sessions to boost morale help cope with the pressures of competition.
Discipline and striving for perfection: coach Evgeny Trefilov pays special attention to strict discipline and constantly working on yourself.

Achievements of Russian handball players on the international stage

Victories on the international stage command respect. Russian handball players have repeatedly become world and European champions. At the 2000 Olympics, the Russian team won the gold medal and Andrei Lavrov became a symbol of this victory, demonstrating the highest level of skill. The 1993 World Cup was another important milestone in which our team not only won, but also demonstrated a new level of team play and tactics.

Russian handball players in foreign clubs: how our players conquered the world

Timur Dibirov, Sergey Gorbok and Pavel Atman are making successful careers at foreign clubs and earning the respect and affection of fans around the world. Timur Dibirov is an important figure at Vardar (northern Macedonia), where he is considered one of the leaders. Sergey Gorbok and Pavel Atman have contributed significantly to the success of the club ‘Rein-Neckar Leuven’ (Germany), adapting their unique style to local traditions and rules.

Russian handball players abroad not only continue to develop their skills, but also bring their special approach to the game to European and world teams, setting them apart from the rest. They show leadership, versatility and readiness for any challenge, making them indispensable on the international stage.

Who is the most famous Russian handball player?

When we talk about who is the most famous Russian handball player, the first name that comes to mind is Andrei Lavrov. As mentioned, this man is a true legend, who became an Olympic champion three times and raised the prestige of Russian handball worldwide. No less famous is Timur Dibirov, who attracted the attention of even those not particularly interested in handball with his striking style of play and incredible technique. His contribution to the popularisation of handball among young people is invaluable.

Russian handball players are people who inspire others by their example and develop the sport both in Russia and abroad. Their fame comes not only from their medals and trophies, but also from their contribution to the popularisation and development of handball.

Legacy and future

Russian handball players have left a legacy in the history of world handball. Their achievements, perseverance and constant pursuit of excellence inspire new generations of athletes. The contribution of coaches like Evgeny Trefilov and Vladimir Maximov has helped lay a solid foundation for the development of future champions. The future of Russian handball looks bright if young talents continue to follow the example of legendary players.

March 18, 2025