Teddy Riner, the renowned five-time Olympic champion judoka, is gearing up for his anticipated return to the competitive judo scene. With the World Championships scheduled for October in Azerbaijan, Riner aims to secure his 12th world title, underscoring his enduring dominance in the sport. Although he has remained active in training following the last Olympics, his last individual competition was back in 2024. Riner has been candid about his struggles with weight management, indicating that he has not been on the tatami in singles competitions for some time.

In a recent interview with L’Équipe, Riner expressed that he is not yet at his peak performance but is optimistic about getting back in shape. He revealed that he has been working diligently despite the challenges of weight and form while training at Insep after a stint in Brazil. Riner hopes to return to competition by the end of the summer, but he emphasizes that this timeline is contingent on his fitness and weight, highlighting the disciplined nature of his preparations.

Riner's journey back to the mat is not just a personal milestone but also a significant event in the judo community as fans and competitors alike await his comeback. His determination to compete at a high level at the World Championships reflects his commitment to the sport and his ambition to add to his illustrious career. As one of the most decorated judo athletes, Riner's performance in October will be closely watched and could reaffirm his legacy as he aims for yet another title.