Embracing the Opportunity
As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, Leon Marchand is poised to become a central figure in the Games. The 22-year-old French swimmer, a five-time world champion, has expressed his calmness in the face of immense pressure. He is not overwhelmed by the magnitude of the opportunity ahead; rather, he believes it will help him transcend his previous achievements.
A Historic Chance for France
Marchand holds the world record in the 400m individual medley and has the potential to end France’s 12-year gold medal drought in the pool. He could also become the first French swimmer to win multiple individual Olympic golds. Reflecting on the upcoming event, he admitted to feeling some stress upon returning to France, realizing that the Olympics were just weeks away. “But since I’ve been in training camp, I’ve felt calm and serene. The event doesn’t overwhelm me; it will help me transcend,” he told during a training camp in Vichy.
Support from Coach Bob Bowman
Much of Marchand’s success can be attributed to his partnership with coach Bob Bowman. After initially connecting via WhatsApp during the COVID-19 lockdown, they met in person at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where Marchand finished sixth in the 400m medley. Bowman, who helped shape Michael Phelps into an Olympic legend, promotes a philosophy of fostering independent athletes. He believes this approach will equip Marchand to handle any unforeseen challenges during the Games.
“The last thing you want to do with a high-level swimmer is make them dependent on their coach,” Bowman stated. By establishing routines that Marchand can follow automatically, Bowman aims to minimize decision-making stress on competition days. This system allows Marchand to focus on what matters most: his performance.
Mental Preparation for Success
In addition to physical training, Marchand has been working with mental coach Thomas Sammut, who previously assisted Olympian Florent Manaudou. “I’ve made a lot of progress,” Marchand said, emphasizing the importance of managing media pressure and public expectations ahead of the Games. “This year, my main focus is Paris 2024, and I’m learning to deal with all that. I’m feeling better and better. I will be ready.”
Recent Achievements
Marchand’s confidence stems from his stellar performance at the 2023 World Championships, where he secured three gold medals and broke Phelps’ long-standing record in the 400m medley. However, Marchand remains focused on continuous improvement, stating, “I think the races I did at Worlds weren’t perfect. There were quite a few things where I thought I could improve.”
Event Schedule at Paris 2024
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Marchand will compete in four events: the 200m individual medley, 400m individual medley, 200m butterfly, and 200m breaststroke. He will face stiff competition, particularly from U.S. swimmers Carson Foster and Chase Kalisz, as well as Japan’s Seto Daiya. Marchand has the unique opportunity to become the first swimmer to medal in both butterfly and breaststroke at the same Olympics, although this challenge is compounded by the scheduling of both finals on the same night.
Harnessing Home Advantage
Marchand recognizes the importance of competing at home and the energy it brings. “I want to use the energy the crowd gives me. It’s an advantage to be at home,” he said. Despite being naturally reserved, he has embraced public appearances as part of his journey, stating, “I see it as a challenge. I want to make my own path and show that it’s possible.”
The Road to Immortality
As he heads into Paris 2024 as a favorite, Marchand faces a significant mental challenge. He is on the brink of achieving sporting immortality in France. With a clear focus, robust support system, and a determination to rise to the occasion, Leon Marchand is ready to make history in front of his home crowd. The world will be watching as he strives to cement his legacy at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
