Your Rolex Grand Prix victory at The Dutch Masters in 2025 was a defining moment in your career. What are your strongest memories of that win, and why did it hold such profound meaning for you?

SD: "The Dutch Masters has always been a show close to my heart. I’ve competed there many times, and before finally clinching the win last year, I’d come agonizingly close to the Rolex Grand Prix title on several occasions. I vividly remember two years ago with Cayman [Cayman Jolly Jumper]; we had the fastest time but clipped the very last fence in the jump-off. It was heartbreaking.

Winning in 2025 was incredibly special—not just for the victory itself, but because I became the first French rider in history to win a Rolex Grand Slam Major. For me, the Rolex Grand Slam is the pinnacle; it’s the series I specifically prepare myself and my horses for all year round."

How would you evaluate your 2026 season so far, and what are your primary objectives for the remainder of the year?

SD: "2026 is a marathon of a season, largely because of the [FEI] World Championships in Aachen this August. We’ve had a fantastic start; in January, I competed in two 5* Grands Prix with two 10-year-olds who are showing immense promise. Gatsby [Gatsby Du Tillard] was second in Leipzig, and Golden [Golden Boy DK] took second in Hong Kong. I have a lot of faith in these two—they are truly special.

Right now, my focus is on Cayman’s return to The Dutch Masters in March. Looking further ahead, CHIO Aachen in May is a major target. If Golden maintains his current form, he will likely be my first choice for the World Championships. While the CHI Geneva is always on the calendar, we are still undecided on the [CSIO] Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’—it’s a demanding trip so soon after the World Championships. With Amelusina [I Amelusina R 51] also back in action, I have a very consistent string of horses to work with."

Cayman Jolly Jumper, Golden Boy, and Gatsby have all been instrumental to your success. How do their characters and competitive strengths differ?

SD: "They are all distinct individuals, yet they share the quintessential traits of a top-level horse: immense courage, high energy, and extreme carefulness.

Away from the spotlight, however, their personalities couldn't be more different. Cayman, for instance, is quite protective of his space; he isn't fond of people entering his stable and prefers to observe you from a distance. But the moment he arrives at a show, he lights up. He is absolutely 'on fire' when he enters the ring.

In contrast, Golden and Gatsby are much more open and trusting. They are happy, social characters who genuinely enjoy human interaction. But regardless of their stable manners, once you’re in the saddle, all three are absolute fighters."

From a rider’s perspective, what makes the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping such a unique and demanding challenge?

SD: "The Rolex Grand Slam Majors represent the absolute peak of our sport. The atmosphere is exceptional, the facilities are world-class, and every single detail is executed to the highest standard. The level of competition is staggering.

The course designers at these events consistently set 'championship-level' tests. You know you’re walking into a very special Grand Prix, and there is no room for error. You have to arrive at the peak of your game and perform at the very limit of your ability."

You often speak about the importance of trust and patience. Why are these elements so fundamental to succeeding at the 5 level?*

SD: "In my opinion, you have to be completely 'at one' with your horse, and that connection cannot be rushed. You need to know each other inside out. I want to understand every nuance: what they enjoy, what they dislike, their preferred distances, and how they process a challenge.

Developing that level of shorthand with a new horse takes at least a year. Only then can you be truly confident that you are ready to face the world’s toughest tracks together."

You are a vocal advocate for the importance of your team. How do they help you stay at the top?

SD: "I’m incredibly fortunate to have such a robust system and a loyal team. My groom, Margaux, is a vital part of that. She has developed an extraordinary bond with the horses. While my relationship with them is built primarily in the saddle, she builds that trust through the daily routine at home and on the road. The horses adore her. When you have total confidence in the people around you, it allows you to focus entirely on the sport."

Throughout your career, which riders or partnerships have inspired you most?

SD: "I’ve always been more inspired by great partnerships than by individuals. For example, watching Marcus Ehning and Sandro Boy was masterclass. I’m constantly observing combinations at shows, analyzing their progression and trying to understand why they are moving in the right direction.

I believe that competing against the best every weekend pushes you to improve. The more you test yourself against world-class riders, the better you—and your partnership—become."