Teddy Riner withdraws from Judo World Championships

French judoka Teddy Riner has withdrawn from the upcoming World Judo Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, due to a shoulder injury. The 37-year-old three-time Olympic champion is prioritizing recovery to prepare for his long-term goal of competing in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The French Judo Federation confirmed that the injury's progression will not allow him to participate in the tournament scheduled for next month. Riner, who has not competed individually since his victory in the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain in late 2024, had previously missed several events this summer, including the Grand Prix in Lima and the Grand Slam in Lausanne, following elbow surgery.

Working with new coach Darcel Yandzi, Riner aims to secure an Olympic quota for 2028. This setback prevents him from pursuing a potential twelfth world title.