Until the Paris Olympics in 2024, the 20-year-old hurdler tells AFP about his journey. In this 10th episode, he talks about his dance studies, he who practiced contemporary dance and ballet before devoting himself to the 110m hurdles.

"I have the equivalent of the Australian version of the bac. I had started university in Australia, then I stopped because of my move to France in 2020. I was pursuing a bachelor's degree in performing arts, classical and contemporary dance. It was every day, from 08:30 to 17:00, Monday to Friday. We danced a lot, in addition to more theoretical studies on anatomy for example. I'm interested in dance, especially the practical side. I learn ten times faster when I use my body. We could dance, be creative. Anyway, learning 100% sitting behind a desk is not for me."

"Maybe I'll go back to school after the Olympics. It will depend on the result. Let's say I'm an Olympic champion, then I'll postpone the resumption of studies again, I think. Olympic champion, it still allows you to earn a good living! Otherwise I'll go back, it's my plan B."

"I'm learning to mix"

"Later, I would like to work in dance. It may be possible after my career but it will depend on my level of dance, I hope not to lose it too much. I have to make a network in this environment, that I participate in projects. I specialize in contemporary dance but I also did ballet. A relative offered me a show at the opera in Paris, I still have to choose which one and the date. I haven't seen a show in France yet."

"My friends at Insep are studying. Sometimes I get bored when others are in class, and I have nothing to do. I don't miss going to class, but using my brain to learn things yes, a little. But I love that freedom to take the time to learn what I want. I'm busy, right now I'm learning to be a DJ, to mix, with Youtube videos. I had learned the technical basics to mix in Australia, with friends. When I have time, I +plug+ (plug) a USB and start mixing. I mix very simple. Techno house, I also like afro amapiano (electro music derived from house, born in the townships of South Africa). I have so many sounds in my playlists."

"Knowing what I will do after my career is the most difficult question. I already want to make enough money to have nothing to do afterwards. Well it will surely +taffer + anyway. I probably won't be a professional DJ. But in the meantime, I like to learn as much as possible. It allows you to get out of certain situations. Imagine I'm in the evening, the DJ has a problem, hop I arrive and I mix."

Interview by Robin GREMMEL

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