European Championships | 15 Oct 2024
Félix LEBRUN: In Pursuit of Glory at the LIEBHERR European Championships
At just 18 years old, Félix LEBRUN has already carved his name into table tennis history. Born on September 12, 2006, in Montpellier, France, his rapid ascent through the ranks of the sport has been nothing short of remarkable. Currently ranked 5th in the world, he is both the top-ranked European and French player. His achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics have further cemented his status as a rising star. Félix will lead the pack of Europe’s elite at the 2024 LIEBHERR European Championships.
LEBRUN became the youngest male player to medal in Olympic table tennis, winning two bronze medals at the 2024 Games: one in the individual event and another in the team event with France.
What is your strongest memory from Paris 2024?
"Hard to pick one moment, but I would say all the celebrations in France after the team’s medal were truly amazing. Sharing that moment with so many people who supported us during the Olympics was unforgettable," recalled Félix.
How has your life changed, both privately and professionally, since then?
"It feels incredible. Winning an Olympic medal was something I dreamed of since I was a little kid. My life has changed a bit—there’s definitely more media attention and recognition from the French public. In Montpellier, we get recognized often now. It’s a new experience, but for now, it’s nice because people have been very kind. If the hype continues for a long time, it could be challenging at times, like when I want to go to a restaurant with my family."
How did you spend your break after Paris 2024?
"After a week of media, I went to Barcelona with my family, and then with my friends. It was great to relax and celebrate the Olympics with my loved ones."
You reached the Round of 16 at the China Smash just two weeks before the European Championships in Linz. How do you feel right now?
"Yes, China Smash was my comeback tournament since the Olympics. I was happy with the level I played at. Of course, I hoped to go a bit further in singles, but I was really pleased with my performance in training and in doubles. Alexis and I had a great tournament. I feel like I’m coming back into top form at just the right moment for the European Championships."
Considering the hectic season, did you have the time to train with the national team?
"We only had one week between China Smash and the Europeans, with matches in every league. We prepared for the European Championships in Montpellier for a week."
How do you view the competition at the European Championships in Linz?
"The competition is very exciting. I have great memories from my first European Championship in Munich, so I hope to have another great tournament in front of a lot of spectators. Many players are tough to beat. Of course, Truls [Möregårdh] is in great shape with two silver medals from the Olympics, and Dang QIU, the defending European champion, will also be hard to beat. Every tournament has its own story and challenges."
What is your goal for Linz?
"My goal is to play my best and, of course, if I can win a title in singles or doubles, I’ll be very proud and happy."
Growing up in a table tennis family, Félix’s path to success seemed almost inevitable. His father, Stéphane LEBRUN, was once ranked 7th in France, and his uncle, Christophe LEGOÛT, represented the nation at three Olympic Games. Alongside his older brother, Alexis Lebrun, who is also an elite player, Félix began honing his skills from the age of three. The family’s deep-rooted connection to the sport, combined with mentorship from renowned coach CHEN Jian, helped shape Félix’s unique playing style.
LEBRUN’S breakthrough year came in 2023 when he clinched the gold medal at the European Games in a thrilling final against Portugal’s Marcos FREITAS. This victory was followed by wins at prestigious World Table Tennis (WTT) events, propelling him into the ITTF’s top ten world rankings for the first time in October 2023. His momentum carried into 2024, where he triumphed at the WTT Star Contender event in Goa and played a crucial role in guiding the French team to their first World Team Championship final appearance in nearly three decades.
