Alex Lanier

Voted best player by the French Badminton Federation for two consecutive years, Alex Lanier is among the contenders to represent France in badminton singles at the Paris Olympic Games. In parallel with his Olympic quest, he reconciles his love for this sport with his studies in formal sciences at Sorbonne University.

How did your passion for badminton begin?
Alex Lanier: I started playing badminton thanks to my parents. I think I chose this sport because it's fun, and when you're little, you also need to exercise and run everywhere. It was one of the first sports I tried growing up. I was having fun, I was enjoying myself, and that's why I came back to badminton. It made me happy, and this feeling was unique compared to other sports. At the time I saw it as a game, but when I realized I could make a living at it, it changed the perspective.

What are you currently studying?
A. L.: I am in the first year of a degree in formal sciences at Sorbonne University. I have always been attracted to physics. I chose Sorbonne University because it was recommended to me, especially since there is a partnership with INSEP.
I don't yet know what career to choose next. So far, I just know that I like doing this degree and studying this subject

How do you combine your studies and high-level sport?
A. L.: With organization! I have chosen to only do one subject for my degree for the moment. I have two two-hour maths sessions per week, which allows me to relieve my workload a little, given that it is an Olympic preparation year.

Usually I get up around 8 a.m., have a workout from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. Then I have two hours of math, followed by my second practice. And I have the evening to myself!

How does Sorbonne University support you in this project?
A. L.:  I am lucky to benefit from the high-level sports system which allows me to organize my schedule, as well as the Passport to the Olympics scholarship program from the Sorbonne University Foundation.

What do the Paris Olympics mean to you?
The Paris Olympic Games represent the largest event ever organized in France. It is a dream for every athlete to participate in such an event.

How do you prepare for it?
A. L.: I work every day to prepare for this intense ordeal. My year is punctuated by training blocks and tournaments - around fifteen per year - and travel around the world: Asia, America, Europe... One Monday, I can be in India, the next day, in China and the following Tuesday be back in France. Getting used to time differences becomes routine.  

What are your goals for these Olympics?
A. L.: My goals for the Olympic Games are to represent my country with dignity and, ideally, win a medal.  

What is your most memorable competition?  
A. L. : My most memorable day was I won the European Junior Championships. I usually play singles, this doubles victory was exceptional. The feeling of sharing this success together was unique. This is the only doubles competition that I have won so far. It was an unusual victory!