In Verfeil, licensees of the flying fig club, chaired by Sylvain Masson, Lydie and Frédéric Ferrete flew to Thailand on Friday, where they will defend their chances at the Badminton world championships. The couple, engaged in mixed double, will start the competition this Sunday at 9 am in Pattaya, facing a pair of the United Arab Emirates. “If we pass this first round, we will then face a duo of Taipei”, specifies Lydie.
“A huge pride”
At 50 and 52, Lydie and Frédéric did not imagine reaching such a step. “I discovered badminton at 13, a little by chance,” recalls Frédéric. He continues: “I progressed to get to a correct level. Then I met Lydie in college. She practiced athletics before putting herself in the badminton”. Installed in Verfeil, the two Badishists joined the local club to live their passion. Their daily life is punctuated by three weekly training sessions and tournaments on weekends.
“A dazzling boom”
With its 120 licensees and affiliated to the Federation for 2 years, the flying fig trees have gained dynamism. “This affiliation has enabled players to participate in official competitions and to aim higher. Representing our club at the Worlds is immense pride. Especially since the tournament is noted, because several former world champions participate. And share this adventure with Lydie makes it exceptional,” says Frédéric. Lydie agrees: “Wearing the colors of France at this level is an honor”.
Already vice-champion of France 2024 and 2025 in double man, Frédéric will not unemployed in Pattaya: he will also compete in this category with a Lozérien partner. The French delegation, with a hundred players, reflects the vitality of the hexagonal badminton. “Since its introduction to the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992, badminton has experienced a dazzling boom in France, with 3 players in the world top 20 in simple man,” said Frédéric. “The discipline seduces by the physical rigor it requires. Moreover, you have fun when you start,” insists Lydie.
The club, departmental champion in D5, is in turmoil at the start of the Worlds. All eyes are turned to Thailand, where the Verfeillois couple will shine local colors.
