Sara Ristovska returns after 10 months and scores eight in North Macedonia's win over Serbia
Captain returned from a long injury layoff, scored eight goals and was named player of the match at the Macedonia Trophy opener on September 24, 2026.
Captain Sara Ristovska returned to the court after a ten-month absence and led North Macedonia to a victory over Serbia, scoring eight goals in the opening match of the Macedonia Trophy on September 24, 2026. The captain's comeback was the emotional highlight of the evening and she was named player of the match.
Match and comeback
Ristovska's presence lifted the home side from the first whistle. Having missed nearly a year with a serious injury, she became a central figure again both on the scoreboard and in the locker room, converting opportunities and helping to control the pace of the game.
After the match Ristovska spoke about the emotions that overcame her during the national anthem: "Yes, it's true. I was overcome by emotions because only I know what period I went through, I really had a serious injury once. After ten months I'm back on the courts, the national team and this moment mean a lot to me, I have been giving my heart to Macedonia for more than 15 years. For almost a year I cheered the girls from the side, so when I heard the anthem I teared up, those are sincere emotions, I know how much I love my national team and how much I give for my country."
Ristovska emphasized that the team achieved its goal against Serbia despite the opponent fielding a younger lineup. She noted that North Macedonia also has a number of young players with senior experience who can shoulder responsibility moving forward.
"Serbia came with a younger squad, we knew that. But let's not forget our team is young too, although many of the girls have been part of the senior squad for years and have experience. We said we'd play 60 minutes until the end, to open the tournament with a win, and we entered without underestimating them. We know that tomorrow against Montenegro and then against Croatia will be tougher matches for us. But we have time, we will rest. Congratulations to everyone and many thanks to everyone who came to support us," she added.
Photo: press material from the event
