The Paralympic Games will begin on August 29. At 45, Christine Schoenn, a para tennis player, will honor her first participation. The sole French representative in the discipline, the young woman is determined to make the French flag fly high in London. With only 20 days to go before the opening, the athlete is not succumbing to pressure.
As the Paralympic Games approach, how do you feel?
I feel good; I’m in the middle of preparing. I’m not overthinking it; I’m ready to go!
Do you watch the Olympic Games?
I watch them from time to time, whenever I can. The first time, I told myself, next time, it’s you! I had an overwhelming burst of emotion that I had to manage afterward. It’s a challenge like any other.
What is your goal?
I want to surprise. Ideally with gold, but if I get a medal, it’ll already be… wow! Impossible is not French.
What do the London Games represent for you?
It’s huge! For an athlete, it’s the pinnacle. It’s reserved for the elite, not like a tournament. You have to earn your ticket. I’m among the top 22 players in the world. It’s a dream come true, a self-fulfillment.
How did you prepare?
I don’t have a personal coach. I train very hard. The pressure is building, much like with marathon runners. The program includes intensive muscle training for two three-week periods, followed by tennis four times a week for two to three hours per session. Finally, I focus on recovery.
How does funding work at this level?
Para sports receive the same as able-bodied athletes. €50,000 for gold medalists, €30,000 for silver medalists, and €13,000 for bronze medalists.
“Life isn’t easy”
How did you get into tennis?
Completely by chance. I accompanied my ex to a practice session for his son after my accident. I was standing, but I absolutely can’t run, so he played with me. He realized I hit well. Neither he nor I knew about wheelchair tennis. We met Olivier Vergonjeanne there, who managed the French wheelchair tennis team at the time, and he offered me an appointment. In a wheelchair, I rediscovered sensations.
What are your strengths?
I’m versatile; I try to know all playing styles to better adapt to the opponent and surprise them.
And your weaknesses?
Probably my backhand slice and forehand volley. I work hard to improve them, hoping they’ll become strengths.
Where does your zest for life come from?
I’m a fighter; I always have a smile. It’s a life philosophy. I always see the bright side of things. Both the positive and the negative have shaped me. Life isn’t easy; it would be a shame to frown at it!
