Flagbearers in judo: Anna-Maria Wagner (GER)

Anna-Maria Wagner, a world-renowned judoka from Germany, will proudly carry her nation's flag at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Born in 1996, in Weingarten, Germany, she has risen to prominence in the judo world through sheer determination and skill. At her Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020, Wagner secured a bronze medal in the -78kg category and another bronze in the mixed team event, marking a significant milestone in her career.

It is the first time in German sports history that a judoka has carried the flag at an opening or closing ceremony of the Olympics. Wagner: "I still can't quite believe that I've been chosen. It's a huge honor to be right at the front carrying the German flag. It is a nice appreciation for the last few years, for the whole life that you have subordinated to sport.”

Wagner arrived in Paris this afternoon - just in time for the press conference in the German House. “But I think we will both get along well. In any case, there has already been a good exchange with the other two girls.”

She is already very excited about the opening ceremony. “I am very excited and want to enjoy the opening ceremony very much. After that I will make a cut and put all my focus on my competition day. That's why I'm here in Paris."

Wagner's journey to Paris has been marked by intense competition, particularly against her formidable compatriot, Alina Boehm. Despite these challenges, she has consistently proven her mettle, winning the World Championships twice and accumulating numerous medals in Grand Slam and Grand Prix events. Her recent victories at the Grand Slam tournaments in Paris and Dushanbe in 2024 further solidify her status as a top contender.

Growing up, Wagner's interest in judo was sparked at the age of seven when she joined an after-school judo class in Ravensburg. The sport quickly captivated her, leading her to join KJC Ravensburg, where her judo journey truly began. Over the years, she has refined her skills, particularly excelling in techniques like Uchi-mata and O-uchi-gari, under the guidance of coaches Kansetsu Eguchi and Claudiu Viorel Pusa.

Wagner's athletic prowess is complemented by her academic pursuits in Hotel and Tourism Management at SRH Riedlingen and her role as an armed forces athlete. Her partner, Domenic Weinstein, is also an accomplished athlete, having represented Germany in track cycling at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Together, they form a dynamic and supportive team.

Despite her success, Wagner has faced her share of challenges. Following her achievements at the Tokyo Olympics, she experienced post-Olympic depression, a struggle she publicly acknowledged in 2022. The support from her close friends, including her best friend Johanna Muller, and her boyfriend, Domenic, played a crucial role in her recovery. This period of introspection and resilience has only strengthened her resolve to achieve her ultimate goal: winning Olympic gold in Paris and starting a family.

Wagner's approach to competition is deeply rooted in mental strength and self-talk, techniques she uses to maintain focus and composure. She draws inspiration from every Olympic champion and aspires to inspire others through her journey. Her motto, "Setting big goals and dreams and believing in them every day," reflects her unwavering dedication to her sport.

As she prepares to shine at the Paris Games, representing judo and her country along the scenic Seine during the parade of nations, Anna-Maria Wagner embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence, making her a true trailblazer for German sport.

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)