Il attend Bill Clinton à la sortie des toilettes de Roland-Garros : la folle histoire de Nelson

The speaker, Nelson Manfort, shares his journey into journalism, emphasizing the importance of reciprocity, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. He initially pursued higher education, obtaining a Master's degree in Law and a diploma from Sciences Po. He anticipated a career in industries like banking, finance, insurance, or public service. However, he found that most job offers didn't align with his aspirations. Driven by a desire for a life of encounters and outdoor activities, rather than being confined to an office, Manfort decided to forge his own path. He describes this period as "taking his pilgrim's staff," meaning he actively sought out opportunities, knocking on doors that were initially closed but gradually began to open. This proactive approach allowed him to pursue his true calling from a young age, around 25 or 27. While journalism came a bit later, his passion for meeting people and his ability to speak foreign languages, particularly English, played a significant role. He realized that true connection and understanding came from engaging with people directly, not from behind a desk, even if other professions like high finance or public service could be rewarding. This presented a dilemma because he started at the very bottom of the ladder. He recounts his early experiences, interviewing fourth and fifth division football teams in Oise in freezing temperatures for regional editions of Le Parisien (then Le Parisien Libéré). He cherishes these early days, even finding joy in seeing his initials, "NM," as a byline. He considers these his best professional years because he actively shaped his own destiny. Manfort attributes his entry into journalism to his passion for encounters and the belief that nothing is impossible. He acknowledges that television, in particular, seemed like an inaccessible "Fort Knox" back then, with far fewer media outlets than today. He experienced a "click" that propelled him forward, which involved persistent door-knocking despite facing numerous rejections from secretaries and editors who often lacked the time to speak with him. This journey was far from easy or straightforward. He confesses that he was close to giving up on multiple occasions. He recalls traveling at his own expense to cities like Lyon and Grenoble for meetings that never materialized. Despite having other potential career paths, including in politics, he persevered. A turning point came with a series of encounters that began to unlock opportunities. This period, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, marked his significant entry into print journalism, working for reputable publications like Le Figaro. He also started as a correspondent for Le Progrès and La Suisse's Le Matin. His writing, or "pen," seemed to impress his interlocutors, leading to further opportunities. Radio followed, with an early weekend morning show on Radio Europe 1 called "Tennis Break and Green," focusing on his favorite sports. It was during this time that he was noticed by Jacques Chancel, then Director of Programs at FR3 (now France 3). Chancel, along with Hervé Bourge, the president at the time, opened doors for him. Manfort emphasizes that individual will is not enough; reciprocity is crucial. He likens it to a one-sided greeting – "coucou, it's me" – which doesn't lead anywhere. He reflects on his early days, contrasting the satisfaction of seeing his initials as a byline for regional editions with his current recognition. He was hired by Tennis Magazine, where he was sent to Wimbledon and other significant tournaments, with his writing again being a key factor. While print journalism and radio were going well, television remained a distant dream. His first television appearance was for FR3's sports segment, which covered tennis, golf, and equestrianism. He felt competent in these areas, which he believed would ease his entry. His debut involved covering an exhibition tennis tournament at Cap d'Agde, featuring top players like Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Steffi Graf, and Arantxa Sánchez Vicario. Because it was an exhibition match, he had more flexibility for interviews, and it was his first time conducting interviews in English and Spanish, which he notes helped launch his career around 1987-1988. Manfort's approach was characterized by breaking conventions and doing things his own way. This was well-received by both the public and his colleagues. His ability to speak English fluently, like an American, eliminated the need for a translator, which was common at the time. However, he quickly wanted to move beyond being seen solely as an interpreter and be recognized as a journalist. This led him to pursue commentary and eventually hosting shows, a process that took considerable time and effort. He is also known for his ability to navigate various situations and get close to people. He recounts a memorable anecdote about his improbable encounter with President Bill Clinton at Roland Garros in the early 2000s. Clinton, then under scrutiny for the Lewinsky affair, was met with immense enthusiasm in Europe. Manfort found himself behind Clinton, with a formidable bodyguard beside him. Despite the bodyguard's presence, the director suggested an interview. During the match, Clinton got up and headed towards the presidential restrooms. Manfort, seeing an opportunity, discreetly followed him. The bodyguard warned him not to ask any questions, but Manfort waited outside the restrooms. When Clinton emerged, accompanied by cameras and lights, Manfort seized the moment. Clinton, being a seasoned politician and media figure, responded to Manfort's questions, although Manfort no longer recalls the specific topic or answers. He describes this as a "false filet" or a clever maneuver, similar to forging one's own luck. He advises aspiring journalists and entrepreneurs to consider what they risk. He argues that the worst that can happen is being told "no," and often, people will say "yes." Crucially, he emphasizes that they are not indebted or inferior to those they approach. They should simply go, do their job to the best of their ability, and pursue their goals.