“We disabled the notifications, it had become incredible”
The frenzy surrounding the Lebrun family has recently intensified on social media, leading to a staggering increase in their notoriety. In just two weeks, brothers Félix and Alexis Lebrun saw their follower count on platforms like Instagram explode, responding to the excitement generated by their sporting achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. But with this increased visibility comes a certain level of stress and information overload, prompting some of them to disable social media notifications. This article explores the issues surrounding this digital frenzy and its implications on the lives of athletes.
A meteoric rise on social media
The numbers speak for themselves: Félix Lebrun, initially followed by 78,000 followers on Instagram, saw this number rise to 274,000. Meanwhile, Alexis went from 55,000 to 164,000 followers. This explosion of popularity is mainly linked to their recent performances, notably their bronze medals earned at the Olympics – an event that marks a decisive turning point in their careers and, consequently, in their online presence. This recognition dynamic has allowed these young athletes to benefit from unprecedented exposure, attracting the attention of the media and sponsors.
The crucial role of social media
Social media play a crucial role in building the image of these young athletes. Thanks to a carefully orchestrated strategy by their “social media manager,” Jonathan Pautrot, the Lebrun brothers have managed to capture the attention of a wide audience, particularly in China, where their influence is rapidly expanding. The way they share their daily lives, their challenges, and their joys has helped develop a community of engaged fans who follow and support them beyond competitions.
The downside of fame
Despite this unprecedented enthusiasm, the rise on social media also brings challenges. Many athletes at the heart of this frenzy have begun to feel a need to step back from the intensity of media attention. “We disabled the notifications, it had become incredible,” confides one of the brothers, illustrating the pressure that such a competitive media landscape can generate. These tools, which should theoretically help them connect with their audience, can become a source of stress, undermining the focus necessary to perform at the highest level.
A need for balance
For many high-level athletes, it becomes essential to find a balance between their personal lives, their performances on the field, and the immense pressure from social media. Disconnecting from notifications does not mean disengaging from the community, but rather protecting their mental health. By focusing on their sporting goals, they can better manage this dual life as athletes and public figures.
A phenomenon that goes beyond the simple sports framework
The situation of the Lebrun brothers is not unique. It is part of a broader societal phenomenon, where the obsession with social media calls into question the very nature of modern fame. While the digital world offers a platform for expression and sharing, it also generates a frenzy that can quickly become unmanageable. The fear of becoming merely a passing trend, as some observers worry, raises questions about the sustainability of this digital fame.
An uncertain future.
As Félix and Alexis Lebrun continue their sports journey and rise on social media, it is crucial to ask how they will navigate this rapidly changing ecosystem, where every performance can be amplified beyond all measure. In the future, it will be interesting to observe whether other athletes will follow the same path and determine how to maintain a healthy online presence while continuing to excel in their respective disciplines.
