Lazar Dukic was a prominent Serbian CrossFit athlete, recognized globally for his outstanding performance in the sport.
Born on September 8, 1996, Lazar was just 28 years old when he drowned and passed away. This tragic incident occurred during the first day of the 2024 CrossFit Games in Texas.
Highlights
- Lazar was the 2024 Europe Semifinal champion and the first individual athlete to win three consecutive Semifinals.
- He debuted at the CrossFit Games in 2021 and had a notable career marked by his dedication and work ethic.
- A GoFundMe page created to support Lazar’s family raised over $250K, surpassing the initial $200K goal within a day.
The Fort Worth Fire Department responded to a drowning call, and upon arrival, they discovered Lazar’s lifeless body.
In response to this tragedy, the CrossFit Games organizers immediately canceled the remainder of the day’s events out of respect for Lazar and his family.
They also released a statement expressing their deep sorrow and focusing the safety and well-being of all athletes as their top priority, and mentioned,
CrossFit is deeply saddened by the demise of a CrossFit Games competitor during the swimming portion of Individual Event 1 at the 2024 CrossFit Games. The well-being of competitors is our priority, and we are heartbroken by this tragic event.
The CrossFit Games
A Serbian CrossFit Champion Lazar Dukic’s Legacy of Athletic Excellence and Inspiring Dedication!
Lazar Dukic achieved remarkable success in his CrossFit career.
He became the 2024 Europe Semifinal champion and made history as the first individual athlete to win three consecutive Semifinals.
Before his CrossFit journey, he spent years passionately playing water polo in Serbia.
Lazar made his CrossFit Games debut in 2021, marking the beginning of an impressive career. His ultimate ambition was to earn a spot on the podium at the CrossFit Games.
Lazar ranked 3rd among male athletes in Serbia, 33rd in Europe, and 88th worldwide, reflecting his dedication and skill in the sport.
Throughout his career, Lazar proudly represented his country, achieving personal success and bringing attention to Serbia in the CrossFit world.
He was a role model for many aspiring athletes in the region, showing that with dedication and the right mindset, one could compete at the highest levels of the sport.
His parents, who hailed from Serbia, were a significant part of his journey.
Lazar Dukic grew up alongside his brother, Luka Đukić, who also competed in CrossFit. Together, they traveled to North Texas to participate in the CrossFit Games.
Luka had impressive finishes in previous competitions, securing eighth and ninth positions over the last three Games.
In the wake of Lazar’s passing, a GoFundMe page was created to support his family.
Although the initial goal was $200K, donations quickly surpassed $250K within just one day.
Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Lazar was cherished for his kindness, sense of humor, and supportive nature.
He is survived by his girlfriend, Dr. Anja Pantović, and his family and close friends.
Additional Information
- Lazar Dukic’s philosophy motivated him to push his mental and physical boundaries as he prepared to meet the demands of intense competition.
- On Friday, a special tribute to honor Lazar will take place at Dickies Arena, beginning at 10 a.m.
- Despite his significant recognition, Lazar’s biography was not featured on Wikipedia’s official pages.
