Flagbearers in judo: Temur Rakhimov (TJK)

The formidable heavyweight Temur Rakhimov from Tajikistan will proudly serve as one of the flagbearers for his nation at the Paris Olympic Games. Known for his impressive skills and unwavering determination in the +100 kg category, Rakhimov is poised to make a significant impact in Paris, potentially securing his first major international prize.

Born in 1997, in Rudaki, Tajikistan, Temur Rakhimov has represented his country with distinction on the world stage. His journey in judo began at the tender age of nine when his grandfather, Rustam Abdurakhmonov, introduced him to wrestling tournaments, sparking a lifelong passion for the sport. Initially practicing taekwondo, Rakhimov switched to judo and quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his talent and dedication.

Rakhimov's career highlights are numerous. He competed in the World Championships six times, finishing fifth in both 2022 in Tashkent and 2023 in Doha.

Throughout his career, Rakhimov has consistently performed well in Grand Slam and Grand Prix events. Notable achievements include a gold medal at the Grand Slam in Baku in 2022 and 13 podium finishes in the IJF World Tour. These results demonstrate his ability to compete at the highest level against the world's best judokas which he met during his international career over the last decade.

Rakhimov made his Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, finishing ninth in the +100 kg category. Despite being eliminated in the second round by Guram Tushishvili of Georgia, who eventually won the silver medal. He secured two silver medals at the IJF World Masters in 2022 and 2023. His consistent performances led him to top the IJF World Rankings in 2023 and 2024.

Away from the tatami, Rakhimov is a well-rounded individual. He graduated from the Tajik State Institute of Physical Education in Dushanbe and currently works in the tourism industry. Fluent in English, Russian, Tajik, and Uzbek, Rakhimov trains under the guidance of Sukhrob Abdurakhmonov in the hall of a school for the hearing impaired in Rudaki. His preferred technique is Tai-otoshi, and he trains rigorously to maintain his competitive edge.

Rakhimov draws inspiration from his father, who serves as his role model, and idolizes Teddy Riner, the French judoka and five-time Olympic medallist. His sporting philosophy, "The one who wins is the one who defeated himself," reflects his belief in the importance of mental strength and self-discipline. Outside of judo, Rakhimov enjoys football, cinema, and futsal, and cherishes memorable achievements such as winning the gold medal at the 2022 Baku Grand Slam.

His role as a flagbearer for Tajikistan at the Paris Olympic Games underscores his significance to his nation's sports community and highlights his potential to secure a podium finish. 

Judo Flagbearers so far (updated Friday)

Amina Belkadi (ALG)

Ange Ciella Niragira (BUR)

Anna-Maria Wagner (GER)

Arnold Kisoka (COD)

Barbara Matic (CRO)

Djamila Silva (CPV)

Erlan Sherov (KGZ)

Faye Njie (GAM)

Gultaj Mammadaliyeva (AZE)

Hugo Cumbo (VAN)

Idalys Ortiz (CUB)

Izayana Marenco (NCA)

Juan Postigos (PER)

Klen Kristofer Kaljulaid (EST)

Krisztian Toth (HUN)

Larisa Ceric (BIH)

Manita Shrestha Pradhan (NEP)

Maryam March Maharani (INA)

Michaela Polleres (AUT)

Nora Gjakova (KOS)

Akil Gjakova (KOS)

Peter Paltchik (ISR)

Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CMR)

Serdar Rahimov (TKM)

Temur Rakhimov (TJK)

Valentin Houinato (BEN)

Thomas Mlugu (TAN)

Lukas Krpalek (CZE)