Leon Marchand, a French Olympic swimming star, revealed Wednesday that his record-breaking exploits in the Paris pool had transformed his life so drastically that he now wears a mask to avoid attention. The 22-year-old won all four of his events in the Games, including the 200m butterfly, breaststroke, and 200m-400m medley double. It elevated him to elite company as the first male swimmer to accomplish so in a solo Games since American icon Michael Phelps in 2008. However, there are times when celebrity might be detrimental.
“I’m going to lose a little freedom and spontaneity because I can’t go out to eat like I used to,” Marchand said as Toulouse celebrated its new Olympic hero. “I need to get a little more organized. I can’t shop on my alone. I’m wearing a hat and glasses. I strive to be discreet. “When people stop me on the street, it’s to say ‘thank you’. That is very kind, and I appreciate it.
He also commented: “I have got used to it quite quickly even if the first weeks were difficult, because it’s a fairly radical change in status.” Marchand stated that the Paris Olympics, which were generally hailed for their flawless organization, created a surge of hope in the country. “France has changed, and I hope it will last,” Marchand remarked. Listen to the newest songs only on JioSaavn.com.
“Sport is something wonderful. It expresses a feeling that you can’t get anywhere else, and the French understood this. We must continue to recognize athletes, attempt to invest more money in infrastructure and promote sports in schools.