KUALA LUMPUR: The French shuttlers did not want to miss the opportunity upon hearing that the Malaysian team were in town for the Olympics.
The Malaysian team, who left for Paris last Sunday, have been conducting open training and simulation sessions, and these were also attended by the French public.
"France's top mixed doubles pair (Thom Gicquel-Delphine Delrue) joined us in the simulation matches and open training sessions. And for me, this is a positive thing," said national coaching director, Rexy Mainaky.
The training camp in the town of Aire-sur-la-Lys is attended by men's pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, women's pair Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah and mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei.
"We did not expect the (French) public to be around at our training sessions. Their attendance here created a competition-like atmosphere.
"Before this, the players were only in training camps, so from gameplay, tactics or skill they are ready. but from a mental and focus aspect... they have not experienced that yet.
"So it's good to have an audience and play against the French pair and not just your own teammates. This creates a different atmosphere that can prepare the players psychologically for the Olympics," said Rexy.
The Olympic badminton competition is from July 27 to August 5 at the Porte de la Chapelle Arena.