By Joël Pütz | Sports journalist
As he gets closer to retirement, Teddy Riner should not lack opportunities for a career change after judo. The French star also discussed one of the most discussed options of the moment, which would allow him to act on his country. And in his eyes, the priority has already been found…
Will Teddy Riner still be there during the 2028 Olympic Games? Although he would have been almost 40 years old at the tournament in Los Angeles, the Guadeloupean nevertheless seems eager to do it again one last time when he is already a triple individual gold medalist, an absolute record within his discipline. Asked by RTL recently, the judoka explained his ambitions in a very simple sentence:
There is no age limit for winning gold medals.
Clearly, the tatami king has not yet finished with his sport which he has outrageously dominated for years, he who has also been eleven times world champion. But even the colossus (2m04 and 150 kilos) does not escape the test of time and the time will come when he will have to put his kimono away in the locker room, for good.
Teddy Riner in politics? His honest opinion
On this subject, some would also see him launching into politics once he retires from sport. close to President Emmanuel Macron, Riner was even at the heart of rumors about a post of Minister of Sports in recent months. The legend is still kicking in for the moment, but is not denying himself such an opportunity:
Thomas Sotto : Could you go into politics afterwards?
Teddy Riner : Do you see me President?
Thomas Sotto : It’s up to you to tell me because you know what they say, when a 130 kilo guy wants to be President, a 60 kilo guy agrees.
Teddy Riner : I hope they all weigh 60 kilos then! (laughs)
I really don’t set any barriers for myself. Today, that’s not the goal. I’m still in my career, I have this slightly entrepreneurial side, I want to discover life again. I’m not closing the door on saying no. Me, my father, my family, where I come from… If you want to do something, give yourself the means to achieve your ambitions, work hard, become better at it and go where you want go.
One thing is certain, however, Riner knows exactly in which area he would like to add his touch if he ever had to try the political adventure, he who has specific ideas in mind:
We need more sport everywhere. Sport is something that brings people together. It’s a way to escape, find yourself, rebuild yourself.
Teddy Riner in politics? Not sure we’ll see that one day, but the judo legend doesn’t want to deprive himself of anything at the moment. Until he completes his reconversion, however, he still intends to terrorize his opponents on the tatami.