French judo legend Teddy Riner has etched his name in Olympic history at the Paris 2024 Games, securing his fourth gold medal and becoming the most successful judoka in Olympic history. The 35-year-old Riner triumphed in the +100 kg category, defeating South Korean Minjong Kim with an ippon in the final.This victory marks Riner’s third individual Olympic gold medal, following his wins in London 2012 and Rio 2016. He also claimed gold in the team event at Tokyo 2020, bringing his total Olympic medal count to an impressive six – four gold and two bronze.Riner’s achievement surpasses that of Japanese judoka Tadahiro Nomura, who previously held the record with three Olympic gold medals. In addition to his Olympic success, Riner boasts an impressive tally of eleven world championship titles.The French champion’s victory was celebrated by a packed crowd at the Campo de Marte stadium in Paris, including French President Emmanuel Macron. Riner’s win not only cements his status as a judo legend but also marks the first gold medal for the French judo team at these Olympics.Following his historic win, Riner expressed his joy and hinted at future ambitions, saying, ‘To become the Olympic champion with a crowd like this, with family and staff, is something exceptional and it’s a pleasure’. He also suggested he might continue competing, potentially eyeing the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Key points
- Teddy Riner won his fourth Olympic gold medal in judo at the Paris 2024 Games.
- Riner defeated South Korean Minjong Kim in the +100 kg category final.
- This victory makes Riner the most successful judoka in Olympic history, surpassing Tadahiro Nomura’s record.
- Riner now has a total of six Olympic medals (four gold, two bronze) and eleven world titles.
- The French champion hinted at potentially competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Contradictions👾There is a minor discrepancy in reporting Riner’s total world titles, with some sources citing eleven while others mention twelve.
This could be due to different counting methods or a recent update in his achievements.
