Alex Lanier
Alex Lanier, 21, world No.10, reached the Badminton World Championships final in New Delhi. After defeating Canadian Victor Lai in the semi-final, he became the first French player to win a medal at this level. Lanier beat former world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the quarter-final, playing 1h18. The semi-final against Lai lasted 1h25, showcasing exceptional physical endurance.
Rise of French badminton
Lanier’s success is part of a broader trend. Three French players - Alex Lanier, Christo Popov and Toma Popov Junior - reached the quarter-finals at the 2023 Worlds. In team events, France stunned Indonesia, Japan and India in the Thomas Cup, reaching the final before losing to China. It also won the European Men’s Team Championships by beating Denmark.
Physical preparation
Lanier highlighted the importance of physical training. "We prepared, especially physically, before the Japan Open. We knew it would be very physical, a World Championship. We polished my game a bit and went to Denmark for intensity," he said. This preparation allowed him to sustain matches over an hour, a key factor in his success.
Coaching and structure
National coach Kęstutis Navickas explained that France has implemented a long-term system. "It’s a long-term work by the French Federation that yields results now," he said. He added that internal competition among French players drives their progress.
Next challenge
Lanier now faces Japan’s Kodai Naraoka in the final. The match was already played at the Japan Open, where Naraoka defeated Chou Tien-chen 17-21, 21-11, 21-10. Lanier remains focused on the game, stating he does not think about the historical aspect but about playing his best on the court.
Conclusion
With three players in the top 15 worldwide, France has become a major force on the international badminton stage, thanks to rigorous preparation, solid federation structure and outstanding individual performances.
