What does your country/nationality mean to you?

Teddy Riner (photo: IJF)

The first thing that many athletes do after winning an important medal. Planned in advance, they will get it from their coach or a family member in the audience. After that, they will wave it and make sure it is visible on every photo that is taken. The national flag. Symbol of love for their country of origin.

But, even in judo, nationality becomes less important than ever. After the last Olympics almost the entire team from Moldova 'transferred' to the United Arab Emirates. Probably, money was the key ingredient to make the move. Their nationality, obviously, didn't mean that much to them.

Of course, there are more examples of famous judoka that changed nationality for their own good. Dutchman Elco van der Geest became a Belgian citizen to avoid competition with upcoming talent Henk Grol. Brazilian-born lightweight and former national champion, Taciana Lima, nowadays wins her medals for Guinea-Bissau. Dmitrij Gerasimenko switched from Russia to Serbia. Just to name a few.

And, with the 2016 Olympics coming up, there are rumours about famous judoka changing nationality to increase the chance to compete in Rio de Janeiro. Will they wave the flag of their old or new country?