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Luc AbaloFrench handball player
Date of Birth: 06.09.1984
Country:  France |
Content:
- Early Career
- Dominance at Ciudad Real
- Financial Crisis and Move to Atletico Madrid
- Return to France and PSG
- International Achievements
- Consecutive World Championships and European Success
- Tokyo 2020: Triple Olympic Champion
- Legacy
Early Career
Luc Abalo: A French Handball LegendCareer Beginnings and Domestic Success
Luc Abalo, a renowned French handball player, began his career with his hometown team, Ivry, where he achieved domestic glory by claiming the French Championship in 2006/07. After the 2008 Summer Olympics, Abalo made a significant move to Spain, joining Ciudad Real alongside his French teammate Didier Dinart.
Dominance at Ciudad Real
Abalo's first season with Ciudad Real marked an unforgettable triumph. The team not only won the Spanish Championship but also emerged victorious in the EHF Champions League, where Abalo showcased his exceptional skills by scoring 12 goals in the two final matches against THW Kiel. Abalo retained his Spanish Championship title the following season and added a bronze medal in the Champions League.
Financial Crisis and Move to Atletico Madrid
In 2011, Ciudad Real faced financial difficulties, forcing the team to disband. Abalo and his teammates relocated to Atletico Madrid, where he reached the Champions League final in his first season but faced defeat to THW Kiel.
Return to France and PSG
In 2012, Abalo decided to return to France, joining Paris Saint-Germain with his Atletico teammate Didier Dinart.
International Achievements
Debut and Olympic TriumphAbalo made his France national team debut in 2005 and played a pivotal role in their historic victory at the 2008 Olympics. He scored 29 points in eight matches, contributing to France's first-ever Olympic gold medal in handball.
Consecutive World Championships and European Success
Abalo's exceptional form continued with back-to-back World Championship titles in 2009 and 2011. He also led France to victory at the European Championships in 2006, 2010, and 2014.
Tokyo 2020: Triple Olympic Champion
Despite missing out on Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, Abalo achieved his third Olympic title in Tokyo 2020, overcoming Denmark in a thrilling final. This victory cemented his status as one of the most successful players in French handball history.
Legacy
As of June 2023, Abalo has played 289 matches for France, scoring an impressive 859 goals. He stands as one of the most decorated players in the sport, having won three Olympic gold medals, three World Championships, and three European Championships. Luc Abalo will forever be remembered as a French handball legend.
