Leon Marchand has won four individual gold medals at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. He shattered four Olympic records in the process, putting him in a category of greatness once reserved for Mark Spitz and Michael Phelps.
What happened?
Marchand, 22, had never won a gold medal before these Summer Games. He emerged as the next big name in international Olympic swimming, winning gold medals in a single Olympics.
Why it matters for Leon Marchand
Marchand's performance in the pool has been shaped largely by America's long-dominant swimming system. He lives in the U.S. most of the year and competed until recently in the NCAA system for Arizona State University.
Marchand is coached by Bob Bowman, the legendary American swimming trainer who helped develop Michael Phelps' talent. Bowman told reporters Marchand has emerged in Paris as one of the all-time greats.
What comes next?
Marchand is expected to swim again on Sunday in a team relay final where another gold medal is very possible. He plans to keep working with Bowman to reach his full potential.
After his win on Friday, Marchand said it was crazy, with the public cheering him on. He held up four fingers in celebration, marking his four gold medals.
U.S. swimmer Regan Smith, who often trains side-by-side with Marchand, voiced admiration for the Frenchman's ability. Smith said Marchand has the It factor, knowing how to get things done.
Marchand's emergence as a national icon in France has sparked Marchand fever. Taxi drivers talk about him, teenagers swoon over him, and restaurants stop to watch his victories on television.
Crowds at the swimming venue have been packed with Marchand fans. After each of his victories, thousands joined in boisterous renditions of La Marseillaise, France's national anthem.
Marchand's coronation as the next big thing in Olympic swimming could not have been staged better. He has emerged as a top Olympic swimmer, and his future looks bright.