Olympic Judo Champion Teddy Riner Praises Morocco as Training Haven

Established in Morocco several months ago, Teddy Riner is a lover of the Marrakech destination where he recharges his batteries before competitions. "I love this city, this country, Morocco. The weather is nice, I have ideal training and living conditions, and Moroccan and French opponents who challenge me every day. With age, I have understood that my living environment was essential to my success," he confided in an interview with the magazine Gala, published on May 30. And he added: "I need sweetness, serenity and tranquility to withstand the significant amounts of work I impose on myself, away from the Parisian pressure. I have also modified my organization with the arrival at my side of a new coach, Christian Chaumont, who strengthens my staff."

The native of Guadeloupe loves to spend good times with his family in the Moroccan desert. "When I have a little recovery time, I like to go with my family in the desert. Little moments like that, there aren’t many. It recharges me," he confided in the 66 Minutes magazine broadcast on May 5 on M6. The stay of the French judoka, his partner Luthna Plocus, as well as their children Eden and Ysis, in the Moroccan desert is summed up by quad bike rides. "We take a little ride, we eat there. It feels good before the next training session," he specified. Teddy takes the opportunity to relax. "I come looking for great inspiration, relaxation, relaxation, beautiful landscapes. You hear nothing, except your big steps, but you hear nothing. The silence is good. It’s plenitude in all its splendor," he added.

On August 2, the 35-year-old judoka won his third gold medal of his career in the +100 kg category, after the London Olympics in 2012 and those in Rio in 2016. Speaking on this occasion, he took the opportunity to once again testify to his love for Morocco: "It’s a country that has always welcomed me well. There aren’t many where I feel as good, but in Marrakech, I really feel at home. It’s hot, it’s close to Paris, and the people are extraordinarily kind to me. When I train, they do everything to help me perform, so frankly, I thank them every day."