Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography: The indomitable black woman who conquered the Judo world.
Clarisse Bogdanna Agbegnenou stands as a beacon of resilience and excellence in the world of judo.
With an illustrious career marked by numerous titles and medals, she has cemented her legacy as one of the greatest judokas of all time.
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Clarisse Agbegnenou: Wikipedia Bio
| Full Name | Clarisse Bogdanna Agbegnenou |
| Date of Birth | October 25, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Rennes, France |
| Nationality | French, Togolese |
| Height | 1.64 m (5 ft 5 in) |
| Weight Class | –63 kg |
| Club | Judo Club Escales of Argenteuil |
| Coach | Ahcène Goudjil (club), Larbi Benboudaoud (national) |
| Occupation | Judoka, Warrant Officer in French National Gendarmerie, Certified Life Coach |
| Parents | Victor and Pauline Agbegnenou |
| Spouse | Thomas Grava |
| Siblings | Three |
| Daughter | Athéna, born June 15, 2022 |
| @clarisse_agbegnenou |
Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography 2024
This comprehensive biography delves into the life, career, achievements, and personal journey of Clarisse Agbegnenou, offering an in-depth look at the woman behind the medals.
Early Life and Background
Clarisse Agbegnenou was born on October 25, 1992, in Rennes, France, to Togolese parents.
Her early life was fraught with challenges, as she was born prematurely along with her twin brother, spending her first weeks in an incubator and undergoing surgery for a kidney malformation.
Despite these early health struggles, Clarisse demonstrated an indomitable spirit, described by doctors as a “fighter.”
Growing up in Gennevilliers, Clarisse’s father, Victor Agbegnenou, a Togolese scientist, and her mother, Pauline, provided a nurturing environment for their four children.
Clarisse’s journey into judo began at the age of nine when she joined the Arts Martiaux d’Asnières (AMA) club.
Her talent and determination quickly became evident, and by fourteen, she had entered the Orléans National Training Center.
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Sporting Career: Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography
Early Successes
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s rise in judo was swift and remarkable.
She became the European junior champion and French vice-champion in the under 57 kg category in 2008.
By 2009, she had clinched the French junior championship in the under 63 kg category, setting the stage for a stellar senior career.
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Breakthrough and Major Titles
In 2013, Clarisse won her first international gold medal at the European Judo Championships, defeating Russia’s Marta Labazina.
The following year, she claimed her first world title by defeating Israel’s Yarden Gerbi at the World Championships in Chelyabinsk.
This victory marked the beginning of a series of world titles, with Clarisse winning gold at the World Championships in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023.
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Olympic Glory
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s Olympic journey is a testament to her perseverance and skill.
She won a silver medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, narrowly missing gold to Slovenia’s Tina Trstenjak.
However, she took her revenge in 2021 at the Tokyo Olympics, winning the gold medal in the under 63 kg category.
Clarisse also contributed to France’s mixed team gold at the same Olympics, further solidifying her status as a judo legend.
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Personal Life: Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s personal life is as inspiring as her sporting career.
She holds dual citizenship in France and Togo and maintains strong ties to both countries.
Togo’s president, Faure Gnassingbe, personally congratulated her after she won the 2014 world title, highlighting the pride she brings to her ancestral homeland.
Outside of judo, Clarisse is a Warrant Officer in the French National Gendarmerie and a certified life coach from HEC Paris.
In 2022, she embraced motherhood with the birth of her daughter, Athéna, sharing her joy and balancing her professional and personal life with grace.
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Achievements and Titles
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s career is adorned with numerous titles and accolades:
- Olympic Games: Gold (2020), Silver (2016), Bronze (2024)
- World Championships: Gold (2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023), Silver (2013, 2015)
- European Championships: Gold (2013, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2020)
- European Games: Gold (2019), Bronze (2015)
Her medal record is a testament to her dominance in judo, showcasing her ability to perform consistently at the highest levels.
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Challenges and Controversies
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s journey has not been without its challenges.
In 2013, she was involved in a brawl at the INSEP, leading to a one-year suspended competition ban and a fine.
Despite this setback, she demonstrated resilience, returning to the sport with renewed vigor and continuing her path to greatness.
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Legacy and Impact: Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s impact on judo and sports, in general, is profound.
She is not only a multiple-time world and Olympic champion but also a role model for aspiring athletes.
Her story of overcoming early health issues, personal challenges, and professional setbacks to achieve greatness inspires many.
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FAQs about Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography
How old is Clarisse Agbegnenou?
As of 2024, Clarisse Agbegnenou is 31 years old, born on October 25, 1992.
What is Clarisse Agbegnenou’s net worth?
Clarisse’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million.
Who are Clarisse Agbegnenou’s coaches?
Clarisse is coached by Ahcène Goudjil at her club, Judo Club Escales of Argenteuil, and Larbi Benboudaoud at the national level.
What are some of Clarisse Agbegnenou’s major achievements?
Clarisse has won multiple Olympic medals (gold in 2020, silver in 2016, bronze in 2024) and numerous world and European championships.
Does Clarisse Agbegnenou have any children?
Yes, Clarisse has a daughter named Athéna, born on June 15, 2022.
Who is Clarisse Agbegnenou’s husband?
Clarisse Agbegnenou husband is Thomas Grava.
How old is Clarisse Agbegnenou?
Clarisse Agbegnenou was born on October 25, 1992, making her 31 years old.
What is known about Clarisse Agbegnenou’s family?
Clarisse was born to Victor and Pauline Agbegnenou and has three siblings. She also has a daughter named Athéna, born on June 15, 2022.
How tall is Clarisse Agbegnenou?
Clarisse Agbegnenou is 1.64 meters (5 ft 5 in) tall.
What languages does Clarisse Agbegnenou speak?
Clarisse speaks French and English.
How can one qualify for the judo Olympics?
To qualify for the judo Olympics, athletes must participate in various international competitions to earn points towards their international judo federation ranking.
What is heavyweight judo?
Heavyweight judo refers to judo competitions for the heaviest weight classes, typically above 100 kg for men and above 78 kg for women. Clarisse Agbegnenou competes in the –63 kg weight class, which is not considered heavyweight.
Conclusion of Clarisse Agbegnenou Biography
Clarisse Agbegnenou’s journey in judo is a testament to her dedication, skill, and perseverance.
With numerous titles and accolades to her name, she has firmly established herself as one of the sport’s leading figures.
From her early beginnings in the sport to her Olympic triumphs and her role as a mother, Clarisse continues to inspire many with her story.
Her accomplishments not only highlight her talent but also her determination to succeed at the highest levels.
As she continues to compete and represent her country, Clarisse Agbegnenou’s legacy in judo will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations of judokas.
