Debating the all-time greats is a classic for all sports fans. Gohandball has taken on the challenge. Here are the 20 greatest male handball players in history.
20: Andrej Xepkin
A defensive powerhouse and a key figure in Barcelona’s dominance during one of the club’s most successful eras. Xepkin was never the flashiest player, but his impact on the defensive end was enormous. With an incredible seven Champions League titles to his name, he is one of the most decorated players ever and earns his place on this list.
19: Staffan Olsson
A true leader both on and off the court. Olsson played a crucial role in Kiel’s rise to becoming a European powerhouse and was also a central figure in Sweden’s golden generation. Known for his intelligence and versatility, he was a player every top team needed.
18: Veselin Vujović
One of the first true global stars of handball. A pioneer of the modern game in the 1980s, Vujović combined flair with effectiveness. He was a key part of the Yugoslavian national team that won Olympic gold and helped elevate the sport internationally.
17: Filip Jícha
At his peak, arguably the best player in the world. Jícha was the driving force behind Kiel’s success, leading them to both Bundesliga and Champions League titles. A powerful and dynamic left back who could dominate games single-handedly. After his career, he has continued at the highest level as a coach.
16: Domagoj Duvnjak
The engine of Kiel for over a decade. Duvnjak is the definition of a complete player, contributing in every phase of the game. Whether scoring, assisting, or defending, he has done it all at the highest level. A Croatian legend who has won almost everything in club handball.
15: Kiril Lazarov
© Bildbyran
One of the greatest goal scorers the sport has ever seen. Lazarov’s shooting ability and consistency over a very long career set him apart. With over 1700 goals for North Macedonia, he is not only a handball icon but also one of the country’s greatest athletes of all time.
14: László Nagy
A physically dominant and technically gifted player who starred for both Barcelona and Veszprém. Nagy was a nightmare for defenders with his size, power, and skill. His longevity at the top level makes him one of the most respected players of his generation.
13: Julen Aguinagalde
A world-class pivot who was vital in Spain’s success for over a decade. Aguinagalde combined strength, intelligence, and timing to perfection. When he got hold of the ball, there was no defender in the world who could stop him.
12: Tomas Svensson
A legendary goalkeeper with an incredible trophy cabinet and decades at the top. Svensson dominated with Barcelona, winning six Champions League titles, and was also a key part of Sweden’s hugely successful national team. One of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of the sport.
11: Daniel Narcisse
Photo: Bildbyrån
A big-game player who always delivered when it mattered most. Narcisse had the ability to decide matches with moments of brilliance and was a key figure in both club and international success for France.
10: Ólafur Stefánsson
A complete right back with elite scoring ability and a long, successful European career. Stefánsson was one of the most consistent top-level players of his era and a key figure in Iceland’s rise on the international stage.
9: Jackson Richardson
One of handball’s first true superstars. Richardson’s creativity and charisma made him a fan favorite, while his performances helped France become a dominant force. His longevity also has to be praised, playing at the highest level for a very long time.
8: Arpad Šterbik
A dominant goalkeeper who won titles across multiple clubs and eras. Šterbik’s ability to perform in the biggest moments made him one of the most feared goalkeepers in handball history—a nightmare for any shooter.
7: Stefan Lövgren
The leader who transformed Kiel into a European powerhouse. Lövgren combined playmaking, scoring, and leadership at the highest level. A true captain who made everyone around him better. Also a key part of a very successful Swedish national team.
6: Talant Dujshebaev
A two-way legend whose influence on the game extends beyond his playing career. Dujshebaev was a complete player who could control matches with both his offense and defense, and later became one of the sport’s top coaches.
5: Magnus Wislander
The definition of a complete handball player. Wislander dominated both ends of the court for over a decade and was a central figure in Sweden’s golden era. His versatility and intelligence make him one of the greatest ever.
4: Thierry Omeyer
Arguably the greatest goalkeeper ever. Omeyer was a decisive factor in countless titles for both club and country. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure set him apart from all others. He could sometimes go an entire game without big saves, but when it mattered most, he always stepped up.
3: Mikkel Hansen
Photo: Petter Arvidson / BILDBYRÅN
One of the most dominant offensive players in modern handball history, with a wrist kissed by the gods. His shooting ability is truly something out of this world, and he has won everything there is to win.
2: Ivano Balić
A genius with the ball. For many, Balić is the most naturally talented player ever to play the game. His vision, creativity, and ability to do the unexpected made him unique and truly special to watch.
1: Nikola Karabatić
Photo: Carl Sandin / BILDBYRÅN
The ultimate winner. Karabatić is the most complete player in handball history, combining physicality, intelligence, and leadership. With unmatched longevity and a trophy cabinet few can rival, he stands alone as the greatest of all time.