Paris honours its judo stars

A few minutes before the first matches of the final block at the Paris Grand Slam started, the public celebrated their favourite champions. The first to climb onto the tatami under the ovation of the public was Lucie Decosse, record holder for the number of grand slam victories in Paris, with 7 gold medals, now national coach of the French team.

She was followed by the great Teddy Riner, who as a perfect showman, raised the temperature in the Accor Arena. To the delight of the public announced that he wanted to come back here to at least equal Lucie's number of victories. He also specified that ideally he would do everything to be again present with the French team during the 2024 Games.

It was then the double Olympic champion Clarisse Agbegnenou who advanced to the centre of the tatami. In a perfect gesture to illustrate the spirit of judo, she was accompanied by Tina Trstenjak (SLO). The two Olympic champions have been competing for years all over the world, sharing the titles of the last two Olympics: Rio and Tokyo. They are the best friends in the world and have demonstrated it perfectly. Finally, Céline Lebrun was also honoured for her six victories in Paris.

Clarisse Agbegnenou then remained on the tatami to present high grade diplomas and belts to French judoka who have dedicated their lives to the development of judo in France.