Charles Noakes takes part in his first Paralympic Games in Paris.
At 27, Charles Noakes is taking part in his first Paralympic Games in para badminton. The Frenchman, who competes in the small-sized players category, has made a name for himself in the last two years by winning the silver medal at the European Games in 2023, then the bronze medal in 2024 at the world championships. As the Paris Games approach, Charles Noakes is ranked among the top four in the world and the best European.
Born in the United Kingdom, Charles Noakes started playing badminton in 2010, with the able-bodied, before quickly turning to para badminton. But to succeed in financing his professional season in para badminton, the Frenchman had to resort to crowdfunding. “You need around €35,000 to €40,000 to live a serene season.” A first season made possible by this funding before the sponsors and the federation took over, and allowed him to live without difficulty from his passion.
Charles Noakes’s track record
- 2024 World Championships: Bronze Medal
- 2023 European Games: Silver Medal