At 33 years old, Maxime Lucu is making a significant impact in the Top 14, France’s top rugby league. His performance in territorial occupation—measured by the average distance gained per kick—places him far ahead of his peers. Lucu has gained an average of 40.6 meters per kick this season, a figure that outpaces even Antoine Dupont, the most celebrated player in French rugby. Since the start of the championship, Lucu has accumulated 1,827 meters from kicks, compared to 1,273 for Dupont, 1,121 for Nolann Le Garrec, 1,070 for Baptiste Jauneau, and 1,020 for Baptiste Serin. These numbers reflect not only individual skill but also the amount of time each player spends on the field and their specific roles in the team. The most striking difference lies in the average distance per kick. While Lucu averages 40.6 meters, the next closest is Le Garrec with 36.2 meters, followed by Dupont with 33.5 meters. This gap—nearly 7 meters per kick—can be crucial in rugby. A longer kick can push back the opposing team’s restart, give the defense more time to organize, and reduce the need for the forwards to engage in difficult “conservation” plays to retain possession. However, this average doesn’t mean every kick reaches that distance; the location where the ball lands is just as important as how far it travels. Lucu’s left foot has also become a key asset. David Darricarrère, who coached Lucu at Biarritz between 2015 and 2017, recalls that Lucu was originally right-handed but significantly improved his left foot, which now allows him to clear the ball under pressure without turning his body. This versatility is especially valuable in high-pressure moments. Lucu has also demonstrated his tactical awareness with four successful 50-22 kicks in five matches, a statistic that highlights his ability to read the game. These kicks, which must bounce before exiting the opposing team’s 22-meter area, allow the kicking team to regain possession from the touchline. Only Jauneau has achieved two such kicks, while Dupont, Serin, and Le Garrec have none. As the Champions Cup approaches, Lucu’s performance will be tested soon. This Saturday, October 10, he faces Jauneau at Marcel-Michel during Bordeaux-Bègles’ away match against Clermont. The match will also see Arthur Retière make his professional debut at the position, while Léon Darricarrère, son of Lucu’s former coach, starts for Clermont. With the pressure of European competition looming, Lucu’s ability to maintain composure and precision under stress will be vital for Bordeaux-Bègles as they prepare for their first match in the Champions Cup against Gloucester.