The three-time gold medalist will be at the 200m Individual Medley final this Friday. Despite feeling fatigued, he remains focused on his goal: another gold medal.
After the euphoria of a historic evening with gold in the 200m butterfly and the 200m breaststroke, Léon Marchand experienced a quieter day on Thursday. He was overwhelmed by fatigue. Following a tough preliminary round in the 200m Individual Medley in the morning (1:57.86), the French prodigy excelled in his semifinal in the evening (1:56.31). After being in third place after the butterfly, he took control of the race, winning in 1:56.31 (the best time of the semifinals).
In control, Léon Marchand did what was needed to face his final individual challenge. His sole aim is gold in the 200m Individual Medley this Friday before focusing on the relay.
In the mixed zone, surrounded by many, the French swimmer gave a brief summary: “I’ll be at the center tomorrow (Friday) night; that was the goal. I was fully committed, I swam 1:56 so it’s not easy. I’ll try to recover; I’m out of juice, I’m a bit drained. I need to have a good night’s sleep, eat well, hydrate, and I think I’ll be ready for tomorrow night…”
He envisions his final individual challenge: “As always, I’ll approach it like the other races. It will be my last chance to experience such a moment; I’ll keep my eyes wide open and make the most of it. It’s going to be exciting…” The Paris Défense Arena is ready to roar…
