Europe Top-16 Cup | 9 Jan 2024
Felix LEBRUN: Setting Goals High in Montreux as the No. 1 Seed
Ranked as the world's No. 8, Felix LEBRUN is leading the pack of Europe's finest players gathered at the 2024 CCB Europe Top 16 Cup in Montreux, scheduled for Saturday, January 20th, and Sunday, January 21st, 2024.
No surprise here, as this has been a breakout year for the 17-year-old phenom, Felix LEBRUN, who secured a spot in the top 10 worldwide. The penholder wizard, known for his upset prowess, boasts an impressive 67% upset rate every time he steps onto the courts. Beside participated in the WTT Finals Men Doha, LEBRUN was also teamed up with his brother, Alexis LEBRUN, in the Men's Doubles event. They reached the semi finals.
“I am very happy to make my debut at Montreux this year. I am hoping for a great tournament in front of many people and many great players,” stated LEBRUN.
The list of players includes Europe’s “finest” at the 2024 CCB Europe Top 16 Cup: World’s number 12, a five-time tournament winner Dimitrij OVTCHAROV of Germany; his compatriot QIU Dang and Slovenia’s Darko JORGIC, reigning champion; Swede Anton KALLBERG, Portugal’s Marcos FREITAS, Swede Truls MOREGARD, Felix’ brother Alexis LEBRUN, Liam PITCHFORD of England, Danes Jonathan GROTH and Anders LIND, Portugal’s Joao GERALDO, Spain’s Alvaro ROBLES, Croatia’s Tomislav PUCAR, Ukraine’s Yaroslav ZHMUDENKO, and the host nation representative Loic STOLL.
“I think every player is strong because there is only the top of Europe in this tournament, but I think Dima OVTCHAROV with all his experience and skills can be very dangerous for everybody,” added Felix.
During your early days in the sport, were there any top European stars you looked up to?
“Of course, Timo BOLL is not in the tournament, but I watched him a lot before. Also, I watched Truls MOREGARD live when he made the final of the World Championships,” revealed Felix.
Reflecting on 2023, what do you consider the highlight of the year?
“In 2023, I had a mesmerizing year with lots of great memories. Obviously, my victory in the European Games last summer in Poland was amazing for me. The highlight of 2023 is the month of October when I played so well in Lanzhou, Antalya, and Frankfurt, won my first title in WTT, and only lost against MA Long in front of an amazing crowd every time! In 2024, I am already on the road, now in Doha, and after that, I go directly to Top 16.”
Are you satisfied with your shape now?
“I feel very good; my physical condition is good. I played at a good level in the last few tournaments, so I'm ready for Montreux.”
What goals do you have for the Top 16?
“My goals for the Top 16 are to take the title this year. I know it will be difficult because there are only top players, but I started the tournament as the number 1 in the seedings, so I think I have my chances to win the tournament this year.”
Lastly, could you share your goals for 2024?
“My goals for 2024 are to take one medal in the World Team Championships in Busan and qualify for the Paris Olympics and try to play at my best level there,” stated Felix LEBRUN.
