Bönisch is set to assumed her role from January 1, following the end on her current role as women’s national coach in Israel.

The 39-year-old German will lead Austria’s six-member coaching team, working with both the men’s and women’s squads.

Judo Austria (ÖJV) President Martin Poiger has described the appointment of Bönisch as a "sensational coup".

Bönisch was one of 25 coaches from 16 nations to have applied for the job.

"When I saw the advertisement at the beginning of September, it quickly became clear to me that I wanted to apply," Bönisch said.

"Even if the timing is difficult: due to the postponement of the Olympic Games in Tokyo by a year, I cannot finish my work in Israel on schedule.

"I'm sorry, but an opportunity like the ÖJV offer doesn't come up every day.

"I am someone who makes clear statements, but at the same time also shows understanding and works as equals with the active ones.

"I would describe myself as very ambitious and goal-oriented.

"The Austrian Judo Association needs countable successes - that is, medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships.

"Ideally it will be Tokyo in 2021, otherwise three years later in Paris."

Bönisch triumphed in the women’s under-57 kilograms final at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, where she overcame North Korea’s Kye Sun-hui.

The German judoka also won silver medals at the 2003 and 2005 World Judo Championships.

Bönisch said the experience as an athlete has helped her coaching career, but insists she is looking forward to Tokyo 2020 rather than back at previous accomplishments.

Poiger hopes the appointment of Bönisch can help end Austria’s wait for major medals, with the country last earning an Olympic medal at Beijing 2008 and a World Championship podium back in 2010.

"As an Olympic champion or two-time vice world champion and longstanding national coach abroad, Yvonne has all the necessary skills," Poiger said.

"She is determined, analytical, communicative and passionate.”

Austria is currently on track to qualify six athletes for Tokyo 2020, according to the International Judo Federation’s Olympic ranking system.

Michaela Polleres is the top-ranked Austria judoka as she lies fifth in the women’s under-70kg rankings.

Bernadette Graf is 15^th in the women’s under-78kg rankings, while Kathrin Unterwurzacher and Magdalena Krssakova lie 17^th and 18^th respectively in the under-63kg event.

Stephan Hegyi is the top-ranked male judoka from Austria, as he lies 18^th in the men’s over 100kg rankings.