A Historic Title
In New Delhi, on August 23, 21-year-old Alex Lanier, ranked World No. 10, crowned his career by defeating Japan’s Kodai Naraoka 21-11, 21-11 in the men’s singles final. The match was hailed as “a day for French badminton,” but Lanier warned that recognition would remain limited abroad.
On-Court Triumphs
The same day saw Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue win France’s first world championship gold in mixed doubles. After beating Chinese top seeds Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping 22-20, 19-21, 21-15, they celebrated their victory before an enthusiastic Indian crowd.
Champions’ Reactions
“ I don’t know exactly, I don’t know,” laughed Lanier when asked how he would be received in France. “I think I’ll walk down the street and nobody will notice me.” Gicquel added, “We’ll be welcomed as if no one knows us.” Delrue emphasized that, despite their success, “there won’t be a crowd; we’re not like football or basketball.”
Future of French Badminton
National singles head coach Kestutis Navickas praised the players’ achievements while noting badminton remains a niche sport in France. “We don’t get that much attention here as we do here, so it’s a pleasure,” he said. He added that these results “will give confidence to the whole badminton community and attract new talent.”
An Uncertain Future
The champions acknowledged that the sport does not enjoy the same popularity as football, which “rules the country.” They hope the increased visibility in India could inspire greater interest at home, but remain realistic about the challenges of gaining a foothold in France’s sports landscape.
Conclusion
While the applause continues in New Delhi, French champions prepare to return to a country where badminton is still a niche. Their world-champion status is a milestone, but the road to national recognition remains long and fraught with obstacles.
