Jade Jones, born on March 21, 1993, in Bodelwyddan, Wales, is a legendary British taekwondo athlete renowned for making history as Britain’s first Olympic gold medallist in the sport. Nicknamed "The Headhunter" for her aggressive style focusing on head kicks, Jones has become one of the most successful and influential figures in taekwondo worldwide.
Jones was introduced to taekwondo at the age of eight by her grandfather, who wanted to channel her energy into a positive outlet. Showing early promise, she left school at 16 to train full-time, quickly rising through the ranks. By 17, she won bronze at the 2010 European Championships and captured gold at the inaugural Summer Youth Olympic Games in Singapore the same year, becoming Great Britain’s first gold medallist at the Youth Olympics.
At just 19 years old, Jones stunned the world at the London 2012 Olympics by winning gold in the women’s 57 kg category, defeating China’s Hou Yuzhuo in the final. This victory marked Britain’s first Olympic taekwondo gold medal. She successfully defended her title at the Rio 2016 Olympics, cementing her status as a double Olympic champion.
Despite a surprising first-round exit at Tokyo 2020, Jones is aiming to make history again by becoming the first taekwondo athlete to win three Olympic gold medals at Paris 2024.
: London 2012, Rio 2016
: 2016, 2018, 2021
: 2015, 2023 (only double gold medallist at her weight in the history of the Games)
: 2010
Jones has also won numerous other international titles, including the British Open and US Open, and has been a dominant force in the 57 kg weight category for over a decade.
Known for her tactical brilliance, agility, and precision, Jones prefers scoring via head kicks, which earn more points in competition. Her dedication to training, mental toughness, and ability to perform under pressure have inspired a generation of British athletes.
Jones is a role model beyond sport, recognized with an OBE for her services to taekwondo. She continues to advocate for women in sport and inspire young athletes across the UK.