After such an intense experience at his home Olympics last summer, the Toulouse native knew that a break from the sport was necessary for his health and career longevity.
During that time, he learnt how to deal with fame, especially in his homeland.
“There have been a lot of positive and a lot of negative changes in my life,” he continued.
“I have to plan things. I can’t just go on my own in the city and just go get some bread, I have to do different things before, after and during.
“It was a lot to handle at first, but I got used to it because I stayed in France until December of last year.
“But I also enjoyed it, and I know how to handle it better now. I know how to say ‘no’ better. I’m also still learning a lot. I definitely get a lot more peace when I travel out of France. I’m able to train better and just do my own thing like usual.”