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European Swimming Championships: Marie Wattel, the phoenix of the pools

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • French swimmer Marie Wattel is aiming for a podium finish at the European Championships after overcoming career setbacks.
  • Wattel, 29, experienced significant disappointment at the Paris Olympics, failing to advance in her events.
  • She reflects on past struggles with injuries and the mental toll of high-level competition, questioning her future in the sport.

French swimmer Marie Wattel is setting her sights on a podium finish at the European Championships, seeking to rebound after a period of significant career challenges. The 29-year-old athlete recently competed in the 100m freestyle final.

I think after my last race, I saw my parents and told them it was over.

— Marie WattelWattel described her emotional state after her disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics.

Wattel faced considerable disappointment at the Paris Olympics, where she was eliminated in the semifinals of both the 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly events. This outcome left her feeling demoralized, to the point where she considered retiring from the sport.

I think I had given so much for Paris 2024, and also for Tokyo 2021, that I started asking myself questions.

— Marie WattelThe swimmer reflected on the immense effort and sacrifices made leading up to recent major competitions.

Reflecting on her Olympic performance, Wattel described hitting a low point after her final race. "I think after my last race, I saw my parents and told them it was over," she recalled, her eyes moist. This immediate reaction was followed by a period of introspection and analysis.

For the last Games, I had very high ambitions and everything collapsed during the preparation, with many injuries. This caused a lot of suffering and frustration.

— Marie WattelWattel detailed the impact of injuries and unmet expectations on her motivation.

"I think I had given so much for Paris 2024, and also for Tokyo 2021, that I started asking myself questions," Wattel explained. "For the last Games, I had very high ambitions and everything collapsed during the preparation, with many injuries. This caused a lot of suffering and frustration." She acknowledged the harsh reality of elite sports, which forces athletes to re-evaluate their commitment, particularly when faced with such difficulties. "Is it worth it to go on for another four years if it's to suffer like this?" she questioned.

Is it worth it to go on for another four years if it's to suffer like this?

— Marie WattelThe swimmer expressed her doubts about continuing her demanding career after facing significant setbacks.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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