We have two more sleeps until the ninth edition of the European Men’s and Women’s Team Championships begins in Liévin, France.
Hosts France have in recent years made their presence felt on the European stage, making the rest of the continent sit up and realise that they are here to win.
In the last two renewals of the European Junior Championships France have won more medals than any other nation and were victorious in the team event on both occasions. This bodes well for the future and looking ahead for the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, the impact is felt at the senior level also. At the 2019 European Games in Minsk, France claimed three medals, a silver in men’s singles, and two bronzes in the women’s and mixed doubles.
It will be a battle
The French men’s team have in the past two European Team Championships managed to pick up silver and bronze medals. The women are yet to medal at these championships, but in Kazan 2018, they reached the quarterfinals. This time on home soil, their eyes are focused on the medals. Speaking about their preparations and expectations, Anne Tran states.
-We started our preparation this week with all the girls, training also with the women’s singles group. We expect to have a medal this year, even if Émilie Lefel is not playing with us, we can still make it.
The French ladies will first have to navigate their way out of a tricky group three, with an unseeded English team being their opening match. Discussing this challenge, Tran says.
-England will be the toughest opponent in the group. It will be a battle, but we are prepared, and we will give our best with a fighting spirit and home support. It is always great to play in front of the French supporters, getting on the podium would be a nice way to thank them.
For the full draw and fixtures, click here.
Tickets to see Europe’s top players fight for the crown are still available.