Olympic champion: "The competition in Baku is very important for me" - INTERVIEW

Interview
8 March 2024 20:22
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Olympic champion: "The competition in Baku is very important for me" -  INTERVIEW

Olympic champion Nina Dervael is one of the gymnasts competing in the Baku World Cup. The Belgian athlete took the highest place on the podium at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in unequal goals. Nina is a double world and European champion.

The Belgian gymnast who reached the finals of the World Cup gave an interview to Idman.biz.

- What was the impression of performing in Baku for the first time?

- Yes, I am performing here for the first time and everything went well. The hall has a very original architecture, which I am seeing for the first time. Here, all kinds of conditions have been created for the participants, the fact that the training hall is nearby is especially noteworthy. It is very pleasant to be in Azerbaijan and the organization is at a high level.

- What can you say about qualifying for the finals on the second day of the World Cup?

- Different from the first day, I showed excellent technique on the second day of the tournament. I was satisfied that the program I prepared qualified for the finals. Now I will fight for a medal, besides, I need to collect the points that qualify for the Olympic Games. Therefore, the competition in Baku is very important for me.

- Do you feel that you are a role model for young people here?

- I must admit that it was a little unexpected for me. Many young gymnasts want to approach, take pictures and ask for advice. I remembered my youth in Baku, I had this attitude towards athletes whom I considered exemplary. Even now, young people are interested in me and this gives additional motivation.

- Your main weapon is performance in unequal arms. Do you have favorite moves in other genres?

- Of course, during training, I mainly pay attention to the arms. I like more free movements, I especially enjoy doing it. At this time, dance elements are used, which creates an additional pleasant impression.

- What is the level of competition at the World Cup in Baku?

- A very intense struggle is going on. Athletes from leading countries compete in sports gymnastics. Other athletes also perform at a high level. The final will be more interesting.

Zaki Feyzullayev

Idman.biz