“Too angry”, Tchumeo explains why he didn’t shake Malonga’s hand.
Competing for an Olympic ticket in the under-78kg category, Audrey Cheumio and Madeleine Malonga face each other this Sunday during the Paris Grand Slam repechage. After his setback, the 2011 world champion refused to shake his compatriot’s hand.
Bad move from Audrey Tchumeo. Beaten by Madeleine Malonga this Sunday, the Frenchwoman (33 years old) did not want to shake the hand of her compatriot (30 years old) after the repechage fight during the Paris Grand Slam. Two judokas are competing in the under 78kg category for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
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Defeated on penalties, Audrey Cheumeau appeared very frustrated, finding it difficult to accept the decision. The setback could have repercussions as she competes with Madeleine Malonga for a ticket to the Olympics next summer. The selection should be known after the Baku Grand Slam in February (16 to 18).
“That’s my first mistake.”
The two athletes, initially eliminated during the quarter-finals, engaged in a long-distance duel in recent weeks. Speaking to Le Figaro, Audrey Cheumeau explained: “Especially the referee’s decisions irritated me. I’ve been with the French team for 20 years and I’ve never behaved like this. It’s my first mistake, but he has nothing. She (Malonga ) together.”
“My disappointment also stemmed from my previous fight,” added Tcheumeo, who was beaten on a golden score by Dutch Gusje Steenhuis earlier in his quarter. When I watch it again on video, I think I will understand better… I waited a long time for shido (penalty), physically I was fine but I was not released.”