Interview. His smile never leaves his face. In the offices of Française des Jeux (Boulogne-Billancourt), Charles Noakes, recently crowned with a Paralympic title in badminton (SH6), does not have enough hands to respond to the numerous requests for autographs from the group’s collaborators . A figure at the Paris 2024 Games, the Nantes native has experienced unparalleled enthusiasm since his coronation at the Arena Nord (Paris). Although he is well aware that this excitement will not be eternal, the athlete intends to make the most of it and hopes that the ecosystem will follow.
What changes have you seen since your gold medal?
Charles Noakes : « I’m starting to get recognized a lot in the street. It’s new. My real pride is when children come to see me. They see an athlete in front of them. It’s beautiful to see. The goal is to inspire, give confidence, motivate and tell people to believe in their dreams ».
So your phone shouldn’t stop ringing?
C.N. : « Since the end of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, requests have been made daily. Particularly from the media. I did all the supports possible. I didn’t expect so much excitement around me. It’s all a real job after all. You have to be serious and convincing. It’s quite energy-consuming but it’s important to ride the wave. I try to enjoy every moment because I know it will fade with time.”
Are you able to make a living from your sport?
C.N. : « It’s very difficult to finance tournaments. An annual budget is around 30,000 euros. This is significant, especially since I travel a lot and tournaments are often organized in Asia. At the start of my career, my first sponsors were my parents. I also did a crowdfunding operation. Sponsors have arrived in 2022 ahead of the Paralympic Games ».
Are you accompanied by an agent?
C.N. : “Not at the moment.” I manage everything alone. I will try to delegate more to find the right balance »
What are your sources of income?
C.N. : « Partners are important, crucial. I have several companies that support me all year round. This has been the case with the Française des Jeux for two years. It’s a big business, associated with sports. By supporting me, it proves that my project is of quality.”
How important are prize money?
C.N. : « The allocations are identical between able-bodied and disabled athletes during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. However, throughout the year it is different. When an able-bodied person can win up to $80,000 for a tournament, I’m going to leave with a stuffed animal and a medal. Para-badminton suffers from a lack of visibility. The competitions are not broadcast on television. There is no partner. I hope that the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will help change the outlook and attract broadcasters and advertisers.”
Interview: Titouan Laurent
© SportBusiness.Club October 2024
