NAME: Teddy RINER
COUNTRY: FRANCE
CATEGORY: +100kg
WORLD RANKING POINTS: 6800
If legends had a weight class, Teddy RINER would be its undisputed champion. Once again, the towering French judoka has finished the season as the world rank leader of the +100kg category, reminding everyone that gravity, fatigue, and fierce competition are mere inconveniences in his world. While his imposing frame and undeniable skill make him an intimidating force on the tatami, off the mat, Riner is a different story entirely, approachable, easygoing, and effortlessly charismatic.
Riner is not just a judo icon, he is a global sports phenomenon. With now three Olympic gold medals from the individual event and many more world championship titles to his name, his legacy is already etched in the annals of judo history. However, what sets him apart is not just his impressive collection of hardware, it is the aura he carries both on and off the mat. When Teddy Riner walks into a room, people don’t just see an athlete; they see a legend who competes with the confidence of someone who knows they are not just participating in a contest, they are shaping history.
This year, despite many wondering whether he still has it in him, Riner once again demonstrated why he is the undisputed leader of the +100kg category. Each victory was not just a display of physical strength but also a masterclass in strategy, patience, and sheer willpower. Every opponent knew they were facing not just a man, but an institution. It was a season of six gold medals, the icing on the cake being Olympic gold on home soil.
Off the mat, his presence continues to transcend the sport of judo. Whether he is attending high-profile events, supporting charitable causes, or simply sharing snippets of his life on social media, Riner carries himself with a mix of grace and authenticity. One might wonder, what is next for the Gentle Giant? His entry for the Paris Grand Slam 2025 has been announced, so it is clear he is not done yet.
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Author: Szandra Szogedi