Who is the Favourite for Gold in Judo at Paris 2024?

The allure of the Olympic Games burns bright for every athlete, but for judokas, the 2024 Paris Games hold a special significance. Competing on home soil, French judokas will undoubtedly feel the weight of expectation, the roar of the home crowd both a source of inspiration and pressure. But who, amongst this fierce competition, are the favourites to stand atop the podium and claim judo gold? Well, let’s find out. Today, we will discuss who’s going to be the favourite for gold in Judo at the Paris Judo Olympics in 2024.

Familiar Faces Vying for Glory

Judo fans will likely see some familiar faces battling it out for gold in Paris. In the men’s heavyweight division, all eyes will be on Teddy Riner, the French judo legend. Nicknamed "”The Boss” for a reason, Riner boasts an unparalleled record: ten World Championship titles and three Olympic gold medals.

While age might be a factor, Riner has defied expectations before. His hunger for gold and the Parisian crowd cheering him on could be a potent combination.

However, Riner won’t have an easy path to victory. He’ll face stiff competition from rising stars like Temur Rakhimov of Tajikistan, one of the highest ranked practitioners in the heavyweight category. Rakhimov is known for his explosive throws and relentless fighting style. Another challenger to watch is Inal Tasoev of Russia, a two-time World Championship silver medalist known for his technical mastery and tactical prowess.

On the women’s side, Clarisse Agbegnenou of France is a strong favourite in the 63kg division although she got her warning by Joanne van Lieshout. Nicknamed “The Queen,” Agbegnenou has six World Championship titles under her belt and a gold medal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her return to form after becoming a mother in 2023 has been nothing short of impressive, with victories in both Grand Slam events she entered this year. 

The Parisian crowd will undoubtedly be behind her, but Agbegnenou’s path to gold won’t be a cakewalk. She’ll face challenges from athletes like Miku Tashiro of Japan, (who would easily have some of the best odds on MMA betting in South Africa if she competed) a two-time World Champion known for her lightning-fast footwork, and Kristine Abiatalla of Canada, a bronze medalist in Tokyo with a reputation for her aggressive throws.

New Blood on the Horizon

While established champions like Riner and Agbegnenou are home favourites, the beauty of judo lies in its ability to unearth new talent such as Van Lieshout. Young judokas with a hunger to prove themselves are constantly emerging, eager to dethrone the veterans.

In the men’s lightweight division, keep an eye on Giorgi Sardalashvili of Georgia. This 21-year-old judoka has already claimed a World Championship title and might snatch a medal at the Paris Olympics. His agility and explosive throws make him a force to be reckoned with. 

Another Georgian star is Tato Grigalashvili who is the triple world champion and of course his ultimate rival Matthias Casse of Belgium. Tato is the reigning European Champion in the 81kg category. Casse’s technical precision and strategic approach could pose a serious threat to more experienced competitors but we hope a final against Grigalashvili.

On the women’s side, the future of judo is bright. Anna-Maria Wagner of Germany, the reigning World Champion in the 78kg division, is an experienced star with a powerful throwing technique and an unwavering fighting spirit. 

Likewise, Christa Deguchi of Canada, the silver medalist in Abu Dhabi last week, is perhaps the most successful judoka (in points) with a relentless work ethic and a never-say-die attitude. These athletes along with others yet to make their mark could provide some thrilling upsets and shake up the order of the last World Championships.

The Home Advantage

The Parisian crowd will undoubtedly play a significant role in the 2024 Judo competition, but competing on home soil can be a double-edged sword for French judokas. The roar of the crowd can be a source of immense motivation, but it can also create pressure that can lead to uncharacteristic mistakes.

Teddy Riner and Clarisse Agbegnenou, with their experience and mental fortitude, are likely to thrive under the Parisian spotlight. However, for younger French judokas, the pressure could be stifling. Managing expectations and channelling the energy of the crowd into positive performances will be key for them.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it - you now know who the favourites are at the Judo Paris Olympics in 2024. This year is going to be extremely competitive. With talents both familiar and new, we can expect to see some truly exciting match-ups and clashes.

While it is perfectly fine to have favourites, every competitor is worthy of our respect. Reaching the Olympics is no small feat. See you next time!