Star Metro - Judo star Riner set for fifth Olympics in Paris

For Riner, 34, who competes in the +100 kg category, it will be a fifth Olympics.

A bronze medallist in 2021 in Tokyo, Riner will aim for a third individual gold in Paris after those of London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro 2016.

Agbegnenou, 31, won gold in the -63kg category in Tokyo after silver in Rio.

"These are my fifth Olympic Games, it's a great source of pride because sometimes you can be forgotten about, but I've shown that I'm still here," said Riner.

"I'm very happy to be selected, now, going to the Olympics is not just about showing off, it's about performing and bringing home the most beautiful medals," he added.

Riner won a record-extending 11th individual judo world championship title in Doha last May, six years after his previous, as he gears up for his home Games.

Agbegnenou will try to get a second gold medal after her triumph in Tokyo.

"I'm overcome with emotions (but) I'll wait until this evening and this weekend to be able to celebrate this selection with my family," she said.

Both were on Friday's initial list of competitors validated by the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) alongside eight other judokas, including Tokyo Olympic medallists Amandine Buchard (-52 kg), Sarah-Leonie Cysique (-57 kg), Romane Dicko (+78 kg) and Luka Mkheidze (-60 kg).

Also selected were Shirine Boukli (-48 kg), Marie-Eve Gahie (-70 kg), Walide Khyar (-66 kg) and Alpha Djalo (-81 kg).

The final list will be released by May 10 with the Games taking place from July 26 ti August 11.

W.Fortin--SMC