Heptathlete Laura Ikauniece-Admidina claimed a bronze medal in the World athletics Championships in Beijing, bringing words of praise from President Raimonds Vejonis who said "I am proud today along with all sports fans Latvian for your willpower and ability, as evidenced by this medal in such a difficult discipline," and wished her good luck in next year's Rio Olympic Games.
Another notable achievement came courtesy of Latvian policeman and professional boxer Mairis Briedis. Fighting in Grozny with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov looking on, Briedis scored a spectacular knockout of local hopeful Manuel Charr, courtesy of a stunning uppercut that sent his opponent crashing through the ropes.
