There is nothing cliche about their story, which began when a 15-year-old Macron took part in a school play directed by Trogneux, 24 years his senior.

Trogneux went from being Macron’s teacher to his partner, and eventually his wife. But through each phase, she has been his mentor and inspiration.

“Without her, I wouldn’t be me,” Macron, 39, declared after winning the first round of voting in April.