Teddy Riner is a record-breaking French judoka, an accomplished Olympic and World Champion, known for his exceptional career in the heavyweight division. After becoming the youngest ever senior world champion in the heavyweight division at the 2007 World Judo Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Teddy Riner went on to establish an unparalleled career as a record-breaking French judoka. His dominance was evident early, securing both World and European Junior Champion titles in the +100 kg category in 2006. The following year, he claimed a gold medal at the European Judo Championships, preceding his historic World Championship victory.
Riner continued his ascent, earning an Olympic Games Bronze Medalist (+100 kg) in 2008, alongside a World Judo Championships Openweight Gold Medalist title the same year. He secured consecutive World Judo Championships Gold Medals (+100 kg) in 2009 and 2010, cementing his formidable presence in the sport. Riner’s sustained excellence continued throughout the early 2010s. He earned further World Judo Championships Gold Medals (+100 kg) in 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2015, alongside European Judo Championships Gold Medals in 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2016.
He added another World Judo Championships Gold Medal (+100 kg) to his historic tally in 2023, showcasing enduring prowess at the highest levels of the sport. Most recently, Riner continued his Olympic legacy at the 2024 Olympic Games, capturing a Gold Medal (+100 kg) and contributing to another Gold Medal in the Mixed Team event, further cementing his status as a legendary figure in judo. His significant impact was also recognized as an Olympic Cauldron Lighter during the Paris 2024 ceremonies. Beyond his competitive career, Riner is dedicated to philanthropic endeavors, serving as an Official Patron for the Imagine Institute of Genetic Diseases since 2012 and acting as a UNICEF France goodwill ambassador, supporting unwell children, doctors, and researchers globally.