Teddy Riner, the 35-year-old judo legend from Paris, captivated the world with his incredible performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 23 stone, Riner is an imposing figure and an icon of judo. This latest victory marks his third Olympic heavyweight gold medal and fourth overall, completing an illustrious career that includes 11 world championships. He shares his life with his partner, Luthna Plocus, and their young daughter. His net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, a testament to his dominance in judo and various endorsements.
Electric Atmosphere
In the minutes leading up to Teddy Riner’s entrance into the arena, the atmosphere was electric. Paris 2024 volunteers filled the aisles with phones ready to capture the moment, while security guards peered in from the gangways, hoping to catch a glimpse. Photographers jostled for prime positions at the edge of the tatami, and every seat inside the Grand Palais Ephemere was occupied by eager spectators. When Riner finally appeared, the crowd erupted, their excitement palpable as the music blared and the fans screeched.
Rise to Stardom
Riner’s journey to legendary status began nearly two decades ago when he burst onto the judo scene as a teenager. By 18, he was a world champion, and in 2010, he embarked on an extraordinary unbeaten streak, winning 152 consecutive bouts over almost ten years. In a sport where the objective is to flip your opponent onto their back, the world’s best struggled to figure out how to defeat him. Riner’s dominance was unparalleled, making him a formidable figure in judo.
Olympic Journey
Riner’s Olympic journey is nothing short of remarkable. He secured his first gold at London 2012 and repeated the feat at Rio 2016. His popularity grew with each victory, as he embodied the values of judo – humility, respect, and courage – while maintaining a passionate edge. However, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics brought an unexpected shock when Riner was beaten by Tamerlan Bashaev in the semi-finals. Despite winning a bronze medal, Riner’s home Olympics in Paris became about more than just putting on a show; it was about redemption.
Quarter-Final Drama
The Paris 2024 quarter-final was a tense affair. Riner faced Georgian judoka Guram Tushishvili, who was disqualified for kicking Riner in the groin. Despite the setback, Riner quickly advanced to the semi-final, which he won with ease. The final, however, pitted him against a challenging opponent, Korea’s Kim Min-jong. At 5 feet 11 inches, Kim is a small heavyweight who can maneuver below Riner’s sphere of influence, making the bout particularly tricky.
Thrilling Final
As Riner and Kim Min-jong climbed onto the stage, the roar from the 9,000-strong crowd was deafening. After bowing to each other, the bout began. Kim adopted a low stance, giving the contest an unusual appearance, akin to a grizzly bear battling an agitated kangaroo. Riner struggled initially to get a clean grip, and the fight turned into a scrappy affair, prompting warnings from the referee. However, Riner soon seized his moment. He grabbed Kim’s jacket by the sleeve and neckline and unleashed his trademark trip, toppling Kim and securing the ippon that instantly won the match.
Celebratory Moments
After the victory, Riner fell to his knees, closed his eyes, and threw his fists into the air in a triumphant gesture. He then went to the stands to hug his young daughter, celebrating the culmination of his hard work and dedication. Eight years after his last Olympic gold, Riner had once again ascended to the pinnacle of his sport, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest judokas of all time.
Reflecting on Victory
Reflecting on his victory, Riner described the experience as “unbelievable.” Competing at home, surrounded by his family and fellow countrymen, made the victory all the more special. He acknowledged the immense pressure on his name but expressed pride in seizing his opportunity. “Today I took my chance. I am very proud, for my name and for my country,” he said, encapsulating the pride and joy felt by him and his supporters.
Etched in History
Riner’s victory is a moment that will be etched in Olympic history. If Leon Marchand is the face of the Paris Games, then Riner is undoubtedly its soul. He represents the Parisian boy who joined a local judo club, conquered the sport, and reinvented it. Comparisons to Usain Bolt better capture his near-unbeatable status and infectious charisma. Riner’s legacy extends beyond his medals; he is a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the spirit of judo.
Post-Victory Interactions
Even an hour after his victory, Riner remained in the arena, waving to fans and taking selfies. He graciously accepted phones from the crowd, snapping pictures before tossing them back to their owners. Finally, he jumped onto the stage one last time, lay flat on the tatami, and kissed his gold medal. For the first time all day, Riner had his back on the floor, savoring the sweet taste of victory and the culmination of an illustrious career.