Alex Lanier turned it up at the 2021 European U17 Championships and grabbed the men's singles after a dominant display in the final.
The young Frenchman who is on everyone's lips at the moment, showed a some of his best badminton in the final, securing the gold against a capable William Bogebjerg in just 23 minutes.
-I think it was my best match. This morning I wanted to win this final and my coach said I can do it, you can play just your game, no stress and just relax. In this match I felt very good and today I feel very proud.
The bronze medallist two years ago converted his medal into a gold, adding to the European U15 gold he won in 2018. He now has eyes set on the European Junior Championships to expand his collection, expressing how he values these medals.
-I think it is very important to write the history and I am very proud today to win. I can also write more history if I win the men's doubles final too. I think it is really great for the French team to have another medal.
I have the talent
Lanier explained that it is the experience that he has already had that made the difference.
-I think I am more prepared than William because I have already played finals on the senior European Circuit and I was able to be more focused on just this match. Only afterwards, I can look towards the doubles.
Lanier recently beat Viktor Axelsen's record to become the youngest men's singles player to win a senior tournament. Last time the European U17 Championships were in Slovenia, Viktor Axelsen, the current Olympic Champion, took the gold. The omens look good.
When asked about the significant hype around his ability and what he has been able to show already at such a young age, Lanier responds.
-Some guys say that I have the talent. Yes, I know I have, but I train everyday with seniors and I just want to be better everyday.
MS FINAL: Alex Lanier (FRA) (1) bt Willam Bogebjerg (DEN) 21-6, 21-9