Which athlete had the biggest impact on you in 2016? Associated with RMC and BFMTV, “le Parisien” – “Today in France” allows you to participate, until December 4, in the election of the sportsman of the year on its website Leparisien.fr. The result will be revealed on the 9th. Will the winner smell like Brazil? In fact, the list includes champions who have illuminated the Olympics, such as the judokas Teddy Riner or Emilie Andéol, the boxers Tony Yoka and Estelle Mossely, without forgetting the French equestrian and sword teams.
But 2016 is also the year of the European Championships in which Antoine Griezmann was named best player of the competition. Other tricolors have also shone in recent months, starting with Romain Bardet, 2nd in the Tour de France, Sébastien Ogier, world rally champion for the 4th time, or Martin Fourcade, alone on his biathlon planet.
THE NOMINATED. 1. Teddy Riner, Olympic judo champion; 2. Marie-Amélie Le Fur, two-time Paralympic champion in athletics; 3. Charline Picon, Olympic windsurfing champion; 4. Emilie Andéol, Olympic judo champion; 5. Sébastien Ogier, world rally champion; 6. Martin Fourcade, four-time biathlon world champion; 7. Romain Bardet, 2nd at the Tour de France; 8. Antoine Griezmann, European Championship and Champions League finalist; 9. Astier Nicolas, Karim Laghouag, Thibaut Vallette and Mathieu Lemoine, Olympic equestrian champions; 10. Tony Yoka, Olympic boxing champion; 11. Estelle Mossely, Olympic boxing champion; 12. Denis Gargaud, Olympic single-seater canoe champion; 13. Jérémie Azou and Pierre Houin, Olympic rowing champions; 14. Gauthier Grumier, Yannick Borel, Daniel Jérent and Jean-Michel Lucenay, Olympic sword champions; 15. Philippe Rozier, Pénélope Leprévost, Kevin Staut and Roger-Yves Bost, Olympic equestrian champions.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Sports Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we have a special guest—sports expert and analyst, Dr. Claire Dupont. Claire, thank you for being here! The end of the year always brings about discussions on who had the biggest impact in sports, and the ongoing election for the ‘Sportsman of the Year’ in France is stirring up quite a conversation. What are your thoughts on this list of nominees?
Dr. Dupont: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time in the sports world. The nominees, including athletes like Teddy Riner and Tony Yoka, truly represent the pinnacle of athletic achievement from 2016. Their performances during the Olympics certainly made waves not just in France, but globally.
Editor: Indeed, the Olympics are a huge platform. Teddy Riner, for example, is a figure many admire. What stands out about his achievements and their impact on sports in France?
Dr. Dupont: Teddy Riner is an exceptional athlete, not only for his skill in judo but also for his charisma and sportsmanship. In 2016, he defended his Olympic title and showcased what it means to be a champion, inspiring young athletes across the country. His dominance in the sport has brought more visibility and respect to judo in France, which is significant for developing future talent.
Editor: That’s a great point! And we can’t overlook the influence of the female athletes nominated, like Estelle Mossely. How do you see women’s sports evolving in this context?
Dr. Dupont: Women’s sports have made remarkable strides in recent years, and athletes like Estelle Mossely are at the forefront of this change. Her victory in boxing inspired many and helped to increase interest in women’s boxing at all levels. The recognition of female athletes in such prestigious awards is crucial—it sends a message that women’s achievements are just as celebrated and should be highlighted in our sporting narratives.
Editor: Absolutely! There’s a point of discussion regarding the visibility of team sports as well, like the French equestrian and fencing teams. How do these team dynamics play into the broader conversation of what defines a ‘sportsman’?
Dr. Dupont: Team sports bring a collaborative element that is different from individual sports. Success in team events often requires not just individual talent, but also great teamwork, strategy, and leadership. This is why athletes from team sports deserve recognition too—they are continually working together, often overcoming significant challenges. Their ability to unite and perform under pressure is what also makes them role models.
Editor: It sounds like 2016 was a remarkable year across all disciplines! What do you hope to see in the future regarding the recognition of diverse athletes and their impacts?
Dr. Dupont: I hope to see continued inclusivity in these awards. Every athlete, regardless of gender or discipline, has a story that can inspire others. Recognizing those stories fosters a culture of appreciation for all forms of athleticism and encourages young fans to engage with different sports. This holistic view enriches the sports community and supports the development of future champions.
Editor: Thank you, Claire, for sharing your insights today. It’s fascinating to reflect on the legacy of these athletes as we await the results of this year’s ‘Sportsman of the Year’ election. It will be interesting to see who comes out on top!
Dr. Dupont: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to the results as well; it’s always a celebration of athletic excellence!
