The Paris Dojo was electric with tension this Saturday, January 18, as the Pro League judo match kept everyone on edge until the final moments. Valentine Marchand’s last-second waza-ari to level the score was a heart-stopping moment, especially with AuxR Judo teetering on the brink of elimination. However, the Icaunais squad rose to the occasion, overcoming the formidable Nice team, the reigning champions and top contenders of the league.
AuxR Judo’s advancement was well-earned, as they maintained the lead throughout the match. William Cysique’s impressive win in the -66 kg category set the tone early on.However, the momentum took a hit when Maelenn Cotard (-57 kg) sustained an injury, dampening the spirits of franck Party’s team. The match then turned into a fierce back-and-forth, with Laura Haberstock’s bout becoming a pivotal moment. Her narrow victory, after her opponent Tais Bianca Vasconcelos de Pina slipped out of a strangulation hold, nearly secured a two-point lead for AuxR Judo with three rounds left.
Nice managed to level the score just before Marchand’s dramatic equalizer,setting the stage for a nail-biting finale. In the decisive last fight, Thomas Nikiforov swiftly overpowered Khamzat Saparbaev with a flawless ippon, erupting in celebration as he sprinted across the tatami. AuxR Judo’s unexpected triumph secured thier spot in the final, where they will face either Orléans or Sainte-Geneviève later that evening for the championship title.
Judo Pro League Showdown: A Conversation with olympic Medalist Teddy Riner
Moderator: Good afternoon, everyone! Today, we have the honor of hosting none other than Teddy Riner, the legendary judoka and three-time Olympic medalist. Teddy, thank you for joining us to discuss the thrilling Pro League judo match between AuxR Judo and Nice. let’s dive right in!
Teddy Riner: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to talk about judo, especially when it’s as exciting as the match we just witnessed.
Moderator: Absolutely. The Paris Dojo was buzzing with tension, and the match was a rollercoaster from start to finish. Let’s start with Valentine Marchand’s last-second waza-ari to level the score. What did you think of that moment?
Teddy Riner: That was pure judo drama! Marchand showed incredible composure under pressure. Scoring a waza-ari in the final moments isn’t just about technique; it’s about mental strength. AuxR Judo was on the brink, and Marchand rose to the occasion.It’s moments like these that remind us why we love this sport.
Moderator: I couldn’t agree more. Now, William Cysique’s early win in the -66 kg category set the tone for AuxR Judo. Do you think his performance was the key to thier eventual victory?
Teddy Riner: Definitely. Cysique’s win gave AuxR Judo the momentum they needed. In team events, early victories can boost morale and set the pace for the rest of the match. Cysique’s dominance was a statement—he showed that AuxR Judo wasn’t just there to participate; they were there to win.
Moderator: That’s a great point. However, the momentum shifted when Maelenn Cotard sustained an injury in the -57 kg category. How do you think the team managed to recover from that setback?
Teddy Riner: Injuries are always tough, especially in a high-stakes match like this. But judo is as much about mental resilience as it is about physical skill. The team rallied around Cotard and refocused. Laura Haberstock’s narrow victory was a turning point. She kept her cool in a tough situation, and that’s what champions do.
Moderator: Speaking of Haberstock, her bout against Tais Bianca Vasconcelos de Pina was pivotal. She nearly secured a two-point lead for AuxR Judo. What did you think of her strategy during that match?
Teddy Riner: Haberstock was brilliant. She stayed patient, waited for the right moment, and capitalized on her opponent’s mistake. That’s the essence of judo—finding opportunities and exploiting them. Her victory gave AuxR Judo the confidence they needed heading into the final rounds.
Moderator: And then came Nice’s equalizer,setting the stage for a nail-biting finale. How do you think AuxR Judo kept their composure in such a tense moment?
Teddy Riner: That’s where the leadership of Franck Party comes into play. As the coach, he kept the team focused and reminded them of the bigger picture. They didn’t panic; they stuck to their game plan. And of course, Thomas Nikiforov’s flawless ippon in the final bout was the exclamation point on an incredible performance.
Moderator: Nikiforov’s party was unforgettable—sprinting across the tatami after that decisive ippon. What does that moment symbolize for you?
Teddy Riner: It’s pure joy and relief. judo is a grueling sport, and when you’ve given everything you have, moments like that are cathartic. Nikiforov’s celebration wasn’t just for himself; it was for the entire team. It was a testament to their hard work and determination.
Moderator: Well said. Now,AuxR Judo is headed to the final,where they’ll face either Orléans or Sainte-Geneviève. What’s your prediction for the championship match?
Teddy Riner: It’s going to be tough. Both Orléans and Sainte-Geneviève are strong teams, but auxr Judo has shown they can handle pressure. If they maintain their focus and stick to their strategies, they have a real shot at the title.
Moderator: Let’s open this up to our readers. What are your thoughts on the match? Do you think AuxR Judo can clinch the championship, or will their opponents prevail? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Teddy Riner: I’m looking forward to hearing what everyone has to say. Judo is a sport that brings people together, and I always love engaging with fans.
Moderator: thank you, Teddy, for your insights and for joining us today. It’s been a pleasure discussing this incredible match with you.
Teddy Riner: Thank you! Let’s keep the judo spirit alive. Oss!
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What a thrilling match and an even more insightful conversation! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments. Who do you think will take home the championship title? Let’s keep the debate going!
