Léon Marchand Snags 4th Olympic Gold in Swimming, Igniting Parisian Celebrations

The 22-year-old French star Léon Marchand left an indelible mark on the Summer Games in his home country.

NANTERRE, France — Léon Marchand’s celebration extended far beyond the pool, spreading throughout Paris.

At Stade de France, hosting the first night of track and field, an enormous ovation erupted when Marchand clinched his fourth gold medal of the Olympics. The cheer was so intense that it delayed the decathlon’s 400-meter run.

At the French Olympic house, nearly 20,000 gathered outside, including 19-year-old Arthur Oursel, to witness Marchand’s dominating performance in the pool.

“He’s a hero,” Oursel exclaimed. “He’s our hero.”

Amidst the cheers of over 15,000 fans, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Marchand secured another victory in the 200-meter individual medley, setting an Olympic record of 1 minute, 54.06 seconds.

“I don’t think anything went wrong this week,” Marchand said. “It was just perfect.”

Marchand finished his six-day streak with an Olympic record, narrowly missing Ryan Lochte’s world mark. He previously won the 400 IM, 200 butterfly, and 200 backstroke, with the latter two events occurring just hours apart.

Marchand joined the elite group of swimmers to win four individual golds in a single games, emulating legends like Michael Phelps, Mark Spitz, and Kristin Otto.

“That’s crazy. Those guys are legends,” Marchand remarked. “I don’t think I have realized it yet. Maybe I will in a few days.”

Second place went to Britain’s Duncan Scott, while China’s Wang Shun secured bronze, just edging out American Carson Foster.

Fans at La Defense Arena erupted in joy, chanting, singing “Sweet Caroline,” and waving the French tricolore. After his win, Marchand celebrated by holding up four fingers, pumping his fists, and gesturing to the crowd.

Marchand’s performance exceeded national expectations and drew comparisons to Phelps, who was present to support him.

President Macron shook Marchand’s hand during the celebration and congratulated him on social media.

“The impossible isn’t French!” Macron wrote. “Four home gold medals and a new Olympic record — it’s historic. It’s Leon Marchand.”

Marchand shared his moment with the crowd, leading them in cheers. The crowd passionately sang “La Marseillaise” as they celebrated his success.

“I’m extremely proud,” Marchand said. “To be French.”

Meanwhile, Australia’s Cameron McEvoy and Kaylee McKeown added to their nation’s gold medal tally.

McEvoy won gold in the 50 freestyle, while McKeown triumphed in the 200 backstroke, becoming the first female swimmer to sweep the back at consecutive Summer Games.

“Not in a million years,” McKeown said of her accomplishment.

McEvoy became the first Australian man to secure gold at these games, and McKeown increased Australia’s tally to an Olympics-leading seven golds overall.

McKeown highlighted the significance of this period for women’s sports, referencing athletes like Simone Biles and Caitlin Clark.

“Not just the Aussie girls, but the whole world and female sports has been unreal this year,” McKeown noted. “It’s great to be a part of that.”

Dressel, however, struggled to replicate his Tokyo success. After finishing sixth in the 50 freestyle, he missed out on the 100 butterfly final.

Dressel did anchor the U.S. team to gold in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, securing his eighth career gold.

Despite the difficulties, Dressel remained optimistic about his performance and upcoming events.

“Obviously not my best work,” Dressel admitted. “I’ve had a lot of fun but this hasn’t been my best week.”

He looked forward to his final relay event in Paris.

“A little heartbreaking for sure,” Dressel described his experience, breaking down in tears after leaving the pool deck.