Clément Batte : “Never stop dreaming big”
Double world champion at the recent CMAS World Championships in Marina El Alamein, Egypt, now holding eleven individual world titles !
Unbeaten since 2021 in the 3 km bi-fins events, only once in the 1km bi-fins during the same period, Clément Batte (FRA) once again made history at the 2025 CMAS Open Water World Championships in Marina El Alamein, Egypt.
World Champion in the 1 km BI and 3 km BI, silver medalist in the 150 m elimination race, and bronze medalist in the 4x1000 SB relay, the French athlete continues an incredible streak that cements his place among the greatest Finswimmers in history: 11 individual world titles, 3 relay titles, 2 silver medals, and 1 bronze.
We caught up with him following his triumphant return from the World Championships.
How did you experience these World Championships in Marina El Alamein, Egypt?
The World Championships were outstanding in terms of organization. Everything was designed for top performance, everything we needed was close to the venue, and the conditions truly represented open water: waves, current, jellyfish... it was amazing!
I was a bit apprehensive because I hadn't competed in open water since Carry-le-Rouet in 2024, but in the end, it turned out to be a fantastic championship for me.
What did you feel when you won the 1 km and 3 km titles again?
When I touched the finish plate on the 1 km, I felt an immense sense of pride. It was my tenth individual world title in five years, a true reward for all the work done with my coach, Thomas Chastagner.
On the 3 km, the feeling was the same: it was my fifth consecutive victory, but also the toughest one yet! My opponent Marwan El Amrawy (EGY) pushed me right to the end. It was an intense battle and an especially satisfying win. I sincerely thank him for this sporting rivalry that has lasted for five years.
You now have a truly impressive record...
Yes ! 11 individual world titles, 5 consecutive on the 3 km BI, 4 on the 1 km BI, 2 on the 150 m, plus 3 relay titles! I'm very proud of all this, but I know I didn't achieve it alone. My coach Thomas Chastagner has been by my side since my early days in Finswimming back in the 2020/21 season. My family and friends also support me tremendously. I owe them a lot.
You finished as runner-up in the 150 m this year...
Yes, I lost my title but with no regrets! The winner (Ahmed Hesham Safwat – EGY) was stronger that day. I'm proud of this silver medal. I love this format: it's a mix of speed, strategy, and endurance, a real fight against others and against yourself. It's demanding, but thrilling!
What role do your family and the French national team play in your success?
My family is essential : they're the ones I see the most, and thanks to them I keep my spirits and motivation high all year long. The French team also plays a major part: it helps release pressure, share experiences, and end the season on a strong collective note.
A message for young swimmers?
Don't be afraid to believe in your dreams — dare to dream big!
And above all, enjoy every moment of your sporting journey. No matter the level, it's always full of emotions worth living.
by Camile HEITZ
CMAS Finswimming Commission Member
