Handball is a sport that has produced many incredible talents over the years, especially in the position of left back. Meet the best left wings in the history of handball.
These players are known for their ability to create plays, make precise throws and lead their teams with vision and intelligence.
Each of the players on this list brought something unique to the sport, standing out for their technical skills, achievements and lasting impact on the game. Let’s explore these players’ careers, their victories and some interesting facts about their lives.
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Best left wingers in the history of handball
Ivano Balić
Ivano Balić from Croatia is considered to be one of the best left wingers in the history of handball. He has played for clubs such as RK Zagreb, Portland San Antonio and Atlético Madrid. Balić was voted IHF World Player of the Year in 2003 and 2006. His vision, playmaking ability and accurate shots have made him a legend of the sport. He led Croatia to gold at the 2003 World Championships and the 2004 Olympics.
Mikkel Hansen
Mikkel Hansen, from Denmark, is known for his impressive skill and powerful shots. He has played for clubs such as AG København and Paris Saint-Germain. Hansen was voted IHF World Player of the Year in 2011, 2015 and 2018. He was a key player in winning the 2019 World Championship and gold medals at the 2016 and 2021 Olympics, and is one of the most feared players on the court.
Nikola Karabatić
Nikola Karabatić, from France, is one of the most complete and successful players in the history of handball. He has played for clubs such as Montpellier, THW Kiel and Paris Saint-Germain. Karabatić was voted Best Player in the World by the IHF in 2007, 2014 and 2016. His physical strength and defensive ability made him essential in France’s victories at the World Championships, Europeans and two Olympics. He is also on the list of the best left wingers in the history of handball.
Talant Dujshebaev
Another of the best left wingers in the history of handball is Talant Dujshebaev, born in Kyrgyzstan and naturalized in Spain, he is a legendary figure in handball. He played for clubs such as Teka Santander, BM Ciudad Real and Atlético Madrid. Dujshebaev was named IHF World Player of the Year in 1994 and 1996. His ability to create plays and score goals led Spain to success at the 1996 European Championships and a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympics.
Andrey Xepkin
Andrey Xepkin, originally from Ukraine and a naturalized Spaniard, had a distinguished career with FC Barcelona. Known for his defensive ability and physical presence, Xepkin helped Barcelona win six EHF Champions League titles. He was also instrumental in the Spanish national team winning a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympics.
Uwe Gensheimer
Uwe Gensheimer, from Germany, is one of the most talented left-sided midfielders of the modern era. He played for clubs such as Rhein-Neckar Löwen and Paris Saint-Germain. Known for his shooting accuracy and finishing ability, Gensheimer was crucial to the victories of his clubs and the German national team. He helped Germany win the 2016 European Championship. He can’t fail to make the list of best left midfielders in the history of handball.
Filip Jícha
Filip Jícha, from the Czech Republic, had a brilliant career playing for clubs such as THW Kiel and FC Barcelona. He was voted Best Player in the World by the IHF in 2010. Jícha was known for his versatility on the court and ability to score goals at crucial moments. He helped Kiel win several Bundesliga titles and the EHF Champions League.
Arpad Sterbik
Arpad Sterbik, born in Yugoslavia and naturalized in Spain, is one of the most iconic goalkeepers in world handball, but he also excelled as a left back in his youth. He played for clubs such as BM Ciudad Real, FC Barcelona and Veszprém KC. Sterbik was voted Best Player in the World by the IHF in 2005. His defensive skills and quick reflexes helped his teams win several European titles.
Guðjón Valur Sigurðsson
Guðjón Valur Sigurðsson, from Iceland, is one of the best left wingers in the history of handball. He has played for clubs such as Rhein-Neckar Löwen, THW Kiel and FC Barcelona. Sigurðsson is known for his finishing ability and leadership on the court. He was crucial to the Icelandic national team, helping them win the silver medal at the 2008 Olympics.
Kiril Lazarov
Kiril Lazarov, from North Macedonia, is one of the greatest scorers in the history of handball. He has played for clubs such as RK Zagreb, BM Ciudad Real and FC Barcelona. Lazarov is known for his powerful shooting and accurate free throws. He was the top scorer at the 2009 and 2017 World Championships and stands out as one of the sport’s most prolific players.
List: the best left back players in handball history
- Ivano Balić
- Mikkel Hansen
- Nikola Karabatić
- Talant Dujshebaev
- Andrey Xepkin
- Uwe Gensheimer
- Filip Jícha
- Arpad Sterbik
- Guðjón Valur Sigurðsson
- Kiril Lazarov
The left wings have redefined the position in world handball and brought innovation and exceptional skills to the sport. Their contributions have been fundamental to the achievements of their teams and national squads, inspiring generations of players and fans around the world.
Now that you know about the best left backs in the history of handball, we invite you to continue exploring our website. Find out more about their careers, achievements and impact on the world of handball:
