The Muret club lived an intense week thanks to its president, Jean-Jacques Nguyen, committed to the world championships.
Badminton veteransde world championships were held from September 7 to 14 in Pattaya, Thailand, and have gathered several hundred players from around the world. As a reminder, they are organized by the International Badminton Federation and bring together the age categories from over 35 to 75 years of age. Participants are not Sunday fans, but experienced competitors.
Jean-Jacques had won his ticket for Thailand last June, at the French veterans championships in Tournefeuille. A third place in doubles had opened the doors of the world gratin. A deserved reward for those who do not spare their efforts on the courts, but also outside, since he is the devoted president of the Muret club.
His first challenge took place in a mixed double (MX45) alongside his partner Claire Carli. The duo fought a memorable battle. After winning the first set 21-19, they hung on in the second before yielding 18-21. Everything was played in a third suspense set, where they even had a match ball at 20-18. But their opponents, solid and inspired, finally concluded on the cruel score of 24-22. A breathtaking match that will remain engraved in the memories.
The next day, place with double men (MD45) with Benoît Deleris. Faced with a Thai pair carried by his audience, Jean-Jacques and his partner tried to play their card thoroughly. Despite a total commitment and a few well felt shots, the walk was too high. Defeat in two sets (21-14, 21-10), but a lot of pride in having stood up to formidable opponents.
The sporting adventure has therefore stopped earlier than expected, but it will remain a unique experience. Because beyond the results, these world championships are also a great opportunity for meetings and exchanges. For the Muret club, seeing its president representing his colors on the world scene is already a victory in itself.
