"Hello everyone and thank you for what you do for us. Every time we get on the tatami it's a different show. Today's is really special. I know it's probably the last time I'm on the tatami of the Accor Arena in front of you.
I wanted to tell you that all of this is thanks to you. I've won three times here and each time was amazing. If I have to remember one medal, I would probably say the one I obtained at the Olympic Games, of course, but winning here will remain forever etched in my memory. The first time I stood on the Paris podium was really a trigger for my career because that day I realised that I could do great things.
My final against Lukas Krpalek, won on the gong, is probably one of my best memories. We have a lot of mutual esteem and respect. That day, you were on fire and I still get chills.
I also think of my semi-final against my friend, my brother, Joseph Terhec (FRA). I had, had a major traffic accident which left me disabled for many months. Joseph accompanied me throughout my convalescence; family and friends are essential. In that difficult moment, I could count on him. In my last grand slam, we found ourselves in the semi-finals together. We had promised each other, out of respect, to give everything and that's what we did. The overflow of emotions at the end of our fight was the illustration of what unites us.
Judo is something that I love and that I received. I had the chance to share my life with great champions. When I receive, I like to give back. Our discipline has incredible values. Our moral code is fundamental. It is very important for me. I want to be able to give to others, so that they can become better people."
Cyrille Maret is not only a great champion, he is also a man with a big heart who participates in educational actions. During one of these animations, he met Erwann, a young man who is fighting against cancer. Cyrille had the opportunity to meet Erwann and to say that courage is the happy medium between fear and audacity. The patient taught him the art of mastering his fear.
Just before leaving the tatami, it was thus Erwann and Joseph Terhec who came to give him a portrait, accompanied by the standing ovation of the public. Tears flowed, but tears of happiness to share and exchange.
"I have lived incredible moments thanks to judo, thanks to you. It is the most beautiful tournament in the world. In 2006 I made my first appearance here. I say goodbye to you, a goodbye from competition only though because you will see me again. Long live judo, it's the best sport in the world, we all know that!"