Spencer Lee is a bright star in the world of wrestling. After leaving his mark in collegiate wrestling, Lee now has his eyes set on the Olympic podium. He has the feathers of winning three NCAA titles and setting several records to add to his wrestling crown. All of which he won during his brief time at the University of Iowa. As he prepares for the Olympics, an unexpected twist adds flavor to his story.

Picture yourself getting ready for the biggest sporting events in one of the world, which also happens to be in the most famous cities. And that city just happens to hold your roots! This is no fairy tale, this is no make-believe. It’s Spencer Lee’s life. A piece of familial history is set to unfold alongside the Paris Olympics for Lee. “I think I was happier for my family than I was like actually winning,” he said talking about the same. But what makes France so significant to Lee?

All about Spencer Lee’s connection with France

The answer lies in the DNA of one of the most influential people in Lee’s life- his mother. Lee’s mother Cathy has French origins. She was back in the day an aspiring Judo athlete in the picturesque country. It was also here that, Cathay crossed paths with Larry Lee, Spencer’s father. The whirlwind French romance began with Catcy challenging Larry for a match. Who could’ve guessed that this could end up in marriage? “My mom was really excited because it’s a good excuse to get the whole family together,” said Lee. 

Spencer’s flight to France is not just about family reunions. He has managed to pick up some French. “I had a nice two-hour conversation with the French delegation. I’m not super good at French. I understand really well but I don’t have a lot of (vocabulary) just because I haven’t spoken French since I was like 6. It comes back pretty quick,” he added talking about the same.

But for Lee, this Olympics is also a chance to experience the Olympics! Confused much? In 2016, Lee had accompanied Olympian Daniel Dennis and the Hawkeye Wrestling Club Coach to Rio de Janeiro. However, during the same, he was not allowed to enter the Olympic Village and never got to train on-site. Talking about the same, he said, “I’m looking forward to being around all the other athletes.” He also went on to say, “It’d be a lie to say you’re not going to be there and experience it. If you try to ignore it, I don’t think that works. I think you have to take it in and run.” But that’s not all that is brewing in France.

Lee is thrilled to perform live in front of his maternal grandmother in France

This is where the Paris saga plot thickens and gets even more heartwarming! Paris Olympics will be the first time that Lee will be wrestling in front of his maternal grandmother. “She’s never watched me (in person), It will be the first time watching her grandson at the Olympic Games,” added Lee. This moment is a dream come true for not just Lee, but his family too.

Amidst all the excitement, let’s not forget why Lee is in Paris! He is preparing to take on China’s Wahnhao Zao in the 125.5-pound bracket. And no doubt, the stakes are high. “For me, it was like now we get to have some fun in my mother’s home country,” he said talking about the competition. Lee’s journey in Paris is an exciting one that to watch closely. As he prepares, the big question is definitely, will his homeland serve him well.