Teddy Riner

Teddy Riner, born on April seventh, nineteen eighty-nine, is a distinguished French heavyweight judoka who has made an indelible mark in the world of judo. With an impressive record, he stands as a nine-time world champion in the heavyweight division, a two-time openweight world champion, and a one-time world champion with the French men's team. Riner's unparalleled achievement of securing twelve gold medals at the World Judo Championships sets him apart as the first and only judoka in history to reach this milestone.

His Olympic journey is equally remarkable, having clinched the gold medal in the Men's +100 kg event at the Summer Olympics three times, specifically in two thousand twelve, two thousand sixteen, and two thousand twenty-four. Additionally, he has contributed to the French team's success in the mixed team event, winning gold twice in two thousand twenty and two thousand twenty-four. Riner's accolades also include two Olympic bronze medals, earned in two thousand eight and two thousand twenty, alongside five European championships and four World Masters gold medals.

Riner's dominance in the sport is highlighted by his eleven Grand Slam victories in his weight category. His remarkable winning streak, which lasted from October two thousand ten to February two thousand twenty, saw him remain undefeated for nearly a decade, amassing one hundred fifty-four consecutive victories. This impressive run was finally interrupted by Japanese judoka Kokoro Kageura during the third round of the two thousand twenty Grand Slam Paris, marking Riner's first defeat in almost ten years.