Clarisse gave birth to a baby girl in June 2022 and took some time to focus on herself and her family. Since then, she has decided to go after another Olympic gold, making her way back into the dojo to prepare for the next Olympic cycle. With the help of her friends and family, she is balancing the challenges of motherhood and intense training. The 30-year-old judoka has maintained her focus and is ready to return to competition.
Taking time off can be challenging for many athletes, but for Agbegnenou, having a baby has made her physically and mentally stronger. The experience has given her a new perspective on life and she is now more determined than ever to succeed.
In a recent interview, Agbegnenou spoke about how motherhood has changed her, saying, "I can say that I am stronger than before. The pregnancy, giving birth, all of this makes you strong. I hope one day she can say ‘oh that's my mom and she is strong and I want to be like her.’”
Agbegnenou is no stranger to overcoming adversity. Being an elite athlete in any sport is challenging, battling injuries and setbacks in one's career, but Clarisse knows what it takes to come out on top. Now, with her new perspective on life and a new biggest fan, she is ready to bring her motherly strength back to the mat and continue her dominance in judo.
“Sorry girls, you had your chance. I’m back!”
This weekend, Agbegnenou will compete in Israel at the Tel Aviv Grand Slam, where she will be looking to add to her impressive collection of medals.
"Tel Aviv is massive, and the crowd is amazing. I know that it will be tough, but I feel good!" she shares.
Her journey as a mother and an athlete has made her physically and mentally stronger, and she is now ready to return to competition and show the world what she is made of. With her sights set on the Olympic Games in Paris next year, she takes to the tatami this weekend in her new golden backpatch. The world will be watching, and there is no doubt that she will give it her all.