Our ambassador: Vanessa Réess
Meet two-time world bridge champion and ambassador Vanessa Réess and challenge her in her next Funbridge Points tournament.
Identity card
- Born in Pau (France)
- 49 years old
After her master’s degree in applied physics in Pau, she moved to Paris to study at IUFM (University Institute for Teacher Training). Then, Vanessa decided to make a career out of it as a director, teacher and professional player.
“I love what I’m doing. Having a passion and making a living out of it, what’s better?”
Next tournament date :
Palmarès
- World Champion – Women Teams – 2005 & 2015
- World Champion – Mixed Teams – 2022
- Champion of Europe – Mixed Teams – 2022
- 4-time runner-up in European Championships & 2-time runner-up in World Championships
- 7-time Champion of France
Interview with Vanessa Réess
At what age have you started playing bridge?
I started when I was 11 years old but not as a very regular player. I started competitive bridge more seriously around 16.
I played my first tournament (first time as a member of the federation) at 11 with my mum at the bridge club of Pau. That was my first victory. And it’s fair to say that I had absolutely nothing to do with it!
What is your current national ranking?
My rank is 1st national series. (No. 3 French female player)
What is your best bridge memory?
All victories are good memories, but my favourite one is 2015 with the French Women team.
We almost got eliminated from the group stage and then we started playing well (even very well). We passed the KO stage and reached the final. I remember we were so hungry to win and determined not to let go.
Singing the French national anthem (off-key as far as I’m concerned) with a gold medal around your neck, that’s wow!
The expert’s anecdote
Vanessa grew up in a family of bridge players (mother, father, grandmothers and even great-grandmother). Her parents were taking part in all competitions.
Vanessa has a son, Arthur Libbrecht, who plays bridge too.
Try to win Diamonds by challenging champion Vanessa Réess!
