ALL TIGERS supports HOPe, the sports media collective that airs through various episodes the (extra)ordinary career paths of 12 young athletes who practice sports that receive little media attention and dream of going for the gold at the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024.

The ALL TIGERS team has met up with fencer Manon Brunnet, Hope athlete and 4th place winner at the last Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro who dreams of bringing home the gold in the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Games.

So, tell us about yourself!

I’m a high-level sportswoman and world champion in fencing, having placed 4th at the Olympic Games in Rio. I’m also a student at EDHEC Business School. And since I’m speaking with ALL TIGERS, I should say that I’m a fashionista in my day-to-day—plus, I’m a tigress on the piste!

When do you feel like you’re “queen of the jungle?”

When my team and I have just won a match. When I win the final point in a close game, and my team runs into my arms so we can celebrate together! 

And, on a different note, when I’m with my friends walking around Paris and having brunch together, just enjoying the simple things in life.

Who is the ultimate Tiger for you?

Judoka Clarisse Agbegnenou is for me the ultimate tiger. She’s an absolute tigress on the tatami mat and terrifies her opponents with a look that can kill...but she’s also this incredibly happy, joyful woman that completely assumes her femininity from head to toe!

What makes you bare your claws?

I bare my claws when people tell me I’m unable to do something, or when someone cheats to beat me.

Natural, vegan, and cruelty-free: women's expectations have evolved. What’s your take?

A healthy lifestyle is just as important as intense training for an athlete. Without it, you won't be able to keep up in the long run. I prefer products that are as pure as they can be, because the more natural it is, the better it is for my body and our planet. If I do what I can to keep myself in shape, I think it’s also important to do the same for our world.

What does lipstick and nail lacquer mean for you?

Lipstick and nail lacquer are, in my opinion, a sign of femininity. I’m more comfortable with nail lacquer since I can wear it even during my competitions. In fencing, the only part of the body that’s visible are your hands. So, thanks to nail lacquer, I can show that a woman can be both a fighter and elegant. When I wear nail lacquer, I feel posh.

Do you have a favorite lipstick or nail lacquer color?

I love the pink lacquer! I’ve got thin lips, and I don’t know how to highlight them with lipstick...

There you have it, you’re now a Tiger! What’s your motto?

Princess Tiger !

Thank you, Manon!

>>And check out our interview with Camille Prigent, canoe slalom champion!