Antoine Dupont was already following in the footsteps of Zinédine Zidane, reprising his role in a famous advertisement. The two men met for the first time on Saturday, the day after the victory of the French XV against New Zealand (27-13) at the opening of the Rugby World Cup.
In this interview broadcast by Brut, with the help of their common equipment supplier, the captain of the Blues initially seems impressed by the 1998 world champion, whom he remembers especially for his exploits during the 2006 World Cup (Dupont was on his 10 years).
“He’s finally real, we can touch him,” laughed the Stade Toulousain scrum-half. “We follow rugby, we love it, we follow the French team,” said Zizou, in the position of the wise man. Seeing them win in France reminds me of lots of things. I imagine what he is going through. »
“I want to tell him to enjoy”
The former French football magician was able to share his experience of a World Cup at home and the pressure that accompanies it, with one slogan: “I want to tell him to enjoy. » “What stands out is his tranquility,” Zidane also said about his younger brother. He reassures everyone a little when he has the ball. In a team, we always need a leader. He is a leader, who sets the tempo. I see a little bit of myself in him, this quiet side off the field, a little shy, a little reserved. And on the pitch, I give what it takes. »
Visibly touched by the compliment, Dupont responded, a little embarrassed. “Before I saw him, I didn’t know he knew I existed. It feels weird. »
Now, the rugby Blues will try to follow in the footsteps of those of football, 25 years later. And if it’s the case ? “His life will change, but it’s worth it,” Zizou said with a smile.