Follow our Olympics coverage in the lead-up to the Paris Games
AUSTIN, Texas — Bob Bowman’s office is sparsely decorated, the coach still settling into his role at the University of Texas. Among the few items adorning the walls are team photos from past college stops and various Olympic Games. Two framed photographs stand out prominently. The first is a collage of Michael Phelps holding the eight gold medals he won in Beijing in 2008, highlighting his status as the greatest Olympian of all time with seven world records. Below it, a newer and larger frame captures Bob Bowman’s latest protege, Léon Marchand, celebrating his world record-breaking moment in the men’s 400-meter individual medley last summer in Fukuoka, Japan.
Marchand, often referred to as the “French Michael Phelps,” trains under Bowman, who coached Phelps throughout his career. Despite the comparisons, Marchand demonstrates his own unique approach and personality in the pool, excelling in events like the 400-meter individual medley, where he recently broke Phelps’ world record.
Marchand, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 170 pounds, has emerged as a dominant force in swimming, particularly in medley events. Anticipation is high for his performance at the upcoming Paris Olympics, where he is expected to shine in multiple events, including the 400 IM, which will be a highlight on the second day of competition at Paris La Défense Arena.
Having clinched three gold medals at the world championships in Japan last year, Marchand heads into the home Olympics with soaring expectations. With Bowman by his side as an assistant coach for the French national team, Marchand is preparing to navigate the pressures of competing on home turf.
Bob Bowman’s journey with Marchand began unexpectedly, with an email from the young French swimmer expressing interest in joining the swimming program at Arizona State University. What followed was a partnership that led to Marchand’s remarkable success in NCAA competition, setting the stage for his Olympic aspirations.
Marchand’s meticulous approach to training, guided by Bowman, emphasizes consistency and routine. Their collaboration has resulted in significant improvements in Marchand’s technique and performance, particularly in underwater kicking, a crucial element in his swimming style.
As the Paris Olympics draw near, Bowman is focused on providing the necessary support for Marchand to excel, ensuring he remains focused on his swimming amidst the heightened expectations and attention surrounding his participation. The duo’s meticulous approach extends to pre- and post-race routines, aimed at maximizing performance and managing the pressures of elite competition.
With Bowman’s guidance and Marchand’s unwavering dedication, the stage is set for the “French Michael Phelps” to make his mark at the Paris Olympics, carrying the hopes of his nation on his shoulders.
GO DEEPER: Swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympics: Top U.S. hopes, schedule, and how to watch
(Top photo of Léon Marchand celebrating a gold medal at the 2023 world championships with Michael Phelps: DBM / Insidefoto / Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)
