Azerbaijani artistic gymnast Nikita Simonov has reflected on his performance at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands, revealing that he missed qualification for the final by just 0.133 points.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the gymnast shared his thoughts on social media, admitting that he had expected a much stronger result but was unable to perform at his best due to health problems.
"I am gathering my thoughts after the World Championships. I failed to qualify for the final in Rotterdam. I was the first reserve gymnast, just 0.133 points away from reaching the final. This was certainly not the result I had planned.
"In fact, I had prepared a completely different routine. However, because I was not in full health, I had to simplify my program. I did not give my maximum, I avoided taking risks, and I fell ill... These things happen. I am not made of iron," Simonov wrote.
The Azerbaijani gymnast acknowledged that the disappointing outcome would serve as an important learning experience and motivate him to improve his preparation.
"This will be a lesson for me, valuable experience and an opportunity to reflect. I will work harder on my mistakes, plan my training camps and preparation more carefully, and devote more time to recovery.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported me! There is still a lot of work ahead, a new season, 2027 and the fight for Olympic qualification!" he added.
Simonov's comments highlight the challenges athletes face when balancing physical condition, competitive ambitions and the risks associated with performing difficult routines at major international competitions.
The World Artistic Gymnastics Championships concluded on October 25.
