Leon Marchand’s double gold electrifies Paris Olympics
France’s Leon Marchand dazzled at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday, capturing double gold in the 200m breaststroke and 200m butterfly, igniting celebrations across the host nation.
The 22-year-old first clinched gold in the 200m butterfly with a breathtaking late surge. Just under two hours later, he showcased immense stamina to secure victory in the 200m breaststroke. These back-to-back wins made Marchand the first swimmer to claim gold in both events at the same Olympics, adding to his earlier 400m individual medley triumph.
“I’ve fulfilled a lot of dreams since I’ve been here. Doing this double was something I felt I could do. But to really do it, that’s something else,” Marchand said. “Of course, I had a lot of doubts. Because everyone told me it wasn’t possible.”
The 15,000-strong crowd at La Defense Arena erupted in a rendition of “La Marseillaise” during the medal ceremonies, while Marchand soaked in the adulation.
“I’m just trying to keep going. I really enjoyed every moment of those two finals. It was really amazing for me to swim those,” he added.
In the 200m breaststroke, Marchand set an Olympic record with a time of 2:05.85. Australia’s Zac Stubblety-Cook took silver, and Caspar Corbeau of the Netherlands won bronze.
Marchand’s 200m butterfly win was especially memorable. World record holder Kristof Milak of Hungary led until the final lap when Marchand’s perfect turn and strong finish secured victory in 1:51.21.
“The 200 butterfly was crazy. I had a really good race strategy. I managed to stay fairly close to the favourite and I really managed to catch him…with the pool on fire. It was pretty crazy to experience that as a French swimmer. I’m so happy,” Marchand said.
Marchand’s coach, Bob Bowman, praised his performance, saying, “It’s wonderful. That tonight was amazing. It’s a night he’ll never forget.”
Marchand’s Olympic journey continues with the 200m individual medley starting Thursday.
“Now I’m going to have to realise what happened, appreciate every moment — and above all, refocus for the 200 IM,” he said.
(Source: AFP)
