Germany’s right back Viola Leuchter has been named the “Best Young Player Presented by Lidl” at the 2025 IHF Women’s World Championship, seeing her win the award in back‑to‑back editions of the world handball flagship competition.

Introduced in 2023, the distinction honours the outstanding player aged under 21 at the IHF Women’s World Championship, reflecting the shared commitment of the International Handball Federation (IHF) and its Official Fresh Food Partner, LIDL, to nurturing the next generation of world‑class talent. LIDL’s long-standing support of international handball continues to create a visible pathway for young players onto the global stage.

The Germany right back was initially selected in a 12-player shortlist for the award by a panel of IHF experts after the preliminary round of the competition, and then was also named between the four finalists, which included fellow teammate Nieke Kühne, France left wing Nina Dury and Denmark's left back, Julie Scaglione.

Leuchter, who turned 21 during 2025, delivered another exceptional tournament in Germany/Netherlands 2025. Operating at right back for Odense Handbold and the German national team, she finished the competition with 28 goals from 55 attempts (51% shooting efficiency), including 20/41 from 9 metres (49%) and scoring goals both via fast breaks and from the wing position during the competition, underlining both range and versatility in attack. 

She also contributed decisively in all‑round play, adding nine assists, 10 turnovers won, five steals and two blocks across 246 minutes and 40 seconds on court, averaging more than one goal and one assist per game.

Her impact was particularly evident in Germany’s key matches on the way to a historic silver medal, as the European side made it to the final of the competition for the first time since 1993. Leuchter scored at least one goal in every of the nine games she played, repeatedly stepping up in high‑pressure moments, while her 1.86m frame and strong defensive work helped Germany win eight of the nine matches played. The performance confirmed her status as one of the most complete young backs in world handball and a cornerstone of Germany’s future.

Leuchter has already represented Germany at four major international competitions, after making her debut at the 2023 IHF Women’s World Championship, having already featured at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the EHF EURO 2024 before shining at Germany/Netherlands 2025.