French Judo record stands as Boukli joins elite

The European Championships in Tbilisi did not produce a new record holder for the most European titles for French athletes, with the benchmark of five gold medals still intact. However, the story of this edition is that a new generation has firmly joined that elite group and is now knocking on the door of history.

France once again takes centre stage. Shirine Boukli secured her fifth European title, continuing a remarkable rise that began with her first gold in 2020. The lightweight has established herself as one of Europe’s most consistent champions. Yet, like Romane Dicko, she remains tied at five titles. Dicko had the opportunity in Tbilisi to become the outright record holder, but had to settle for bronze.

Both now stand alongside some of the greatest names in European judo history. Clarisse Agbégnénou also reached five European titles, her last coming in 2020. Anne-Sophie Mondière achieved an extraordinary run of five consecutive titles between 2004 and 2008, a feat that still stands out. Gévrise Émane likewise collected five continental crowns during her career.

French dominance stretches further back. Names such as Jocelyne Triadou and Catherine Fleury defined earlier eras, while Céline Lebrun left her mark between 1999 and 2005. And then there is Teddy Riner, the most decorated heavyweight of his generation, who despite global dominance also stands on five European titles.

The record itself goes back even further, to pioneers such as Jean de Hert, who helped shape the early years of European competition.

What Tbilisi has made clear is that the record is under real threat. With Boukli and Dicko still in their prime and years ahead of them, it now feels inevitable that the mark of five will eventually be surpassed. The only question is who will take that final step and stand alone at the top.

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