It was necessary to conclude a dream year. Olympic medalists, European champions, the Lebrun brothers went for the best title of their season, but especially of their career this Saturday by winning the WTT Finals in Fukuoka (Japan). At the same time, the two brothers became world number 1 in doubles, something never seen before in the history of French ping.
Alexis and Félix, always supported by their coach Nathanaël Molin, started as slight favorites in their final against the Japanese pair, world number 6, made up of Shunsuke Togami and Hiroto Shinozuka. But in front of their audience, it was the latter who had the best start to the match, pushing the French to make mistakes until the middle of the second round.
The Lebruns in “Super Saiyan” mode
We thought the French, worn out, KO standing, and on the verge of conceding the second set (12-14, 3-8), but that was without counting on the furia tricolor. Completely transcended and much more offensive after a decisive timeout, the Lebrun regained control of the match to return to a set everywhere before taking the third set without trembling (12-14, 14-12, 11-6).
The small Japanese start in the fourth set (7-11) did not change much. With their eyes fixed on the trophy present at the edge of the court, and the place of world number 1 which awaited them, the two tricolors triumphed at the end of a decisive round, marked by exceptional shots, where there was no the slightest suspense (11-4).
Carried by a Félix always impressive in his commitment, and an Alexis much more constant in his attacks, they even had time to think about their little final celebration. A nod to Japanese culture and the Dragon Ball Z manga.
🇫🇷 THE KINGS OF THE WORLD!! 😍
The Lebrun brothers at the top of the world ping! Historic performance from the French duo who became world number 1 in doubles after their victory at the WTT Finals, the biggest tournament of the year.
🏓 IT’S SIMPLY MONSTROUS! pic.twitter.com/TCraVmZVS3
— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) November 23, 2024
Because yes, Alexis and Félix are all “Super Saiyans” (the heroes of the DBZ universe). Eliminated as soon as they entered the fray in the round of 16 of the singles tournament, the two were able to bounce back perfectly to seek the Grail together. As always.
“It’s crazy. It’s incredible to experience this with my brother Alexis. Playing with him is special. It’s an incredible year for us. To end up with the title is perfect,” enthused the younger of the two brothers.
