The two great stars of French judo Teddy Riner (+100 kg) and Clarisse Agbégnénou (-63 kg) were officially selected on Friday in the French team which will compete in the Paris Olympic Games next summer. Their names appear on a list validated by the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) alongside eight other judokas, including Tokyo Olympic medalists Amandine Buchard (-52 kg), Sarah-Léonie Cysique (-57 kg), Romane Dicko (+78 kg) or even Luka Mkheidze (-60 kg).
Also included in the selection are Shirine Boukli (-48 kg), Marie-Eve Gahié (-70 kg), Walide Khyar (-66 kg) and Alpha Djalo (-81 kg). Eight months before the Olympics, four categories still remain to be awarded, one for women and three for men.
“These are my fifth Olympic Games, it’s a great source of pride because we often tend to bury you, but I always show the tip of my nose,” responded Riner during a press briefing after the formalization of his selection. “I’m very happy to be selected, now, going to the Olympics isn’t just about showing off, it’s about performing and bringing home the most beautiful medals,” he added. Bronze medalist in 2021 in Tokyo, Riner will aim for a third individual coronation in Paris after those of 2012 and 2016.
“Putting athletes in the best conditions”
Agbégnénou will try to get a second gold medal after her triumph in Tokyo. “I feel a lot of emotions (but) I will wait until this evening and this weekend to be able to celebrate this selection with my family,” she reacted.
This announcement comes eight months before the start of the Olympic Games, the Federation having followed the recommendations of the National Sports Agency. “It was essential to announce those selected for the Games as soon as possible to put the athletes in the best conditions so that they can prepare calmly and effectively for this deadline,” declared Frédérique Jossinet, high level manager. The list will be completed no later than May 10, she said.