1. You’ve already enjoyed a career full of memorable moments, so what makes a home World Championships so special?
I’ve been fortunate enough to experience many sporting highlights, but a home World Championships has a very unique appeal. In rhythmic gymnastics, the audience is generally very appreciative and supportive of all the athletes. But it’s something special to know you have your own fans behind you. You feel the support from your own country more intensely, and at the same time, interest in the sport grows. In recent years, rhythmic gymnastics has gained significantly in popularity – and seeing and experiencing that first-hand in front of a home crowd is something truly special.
2. How is the team feeling about the upcoming event?
The German team is very excited. In recent weeks, our focus has still been heavily on international competitions like the World Cups and the European Championships. Nevertheless, the home World Championships have always been our big goal in the background. Now that they’re getting closer, they’re becoming increasingly real, and the excitement and motivation are rising accordingly.
3. What fascinates you most about this sport to this day?
What fascinates me most about rhythmic gymnastics is the unique blend of sport and art. The combination of strength, precision, and elegance is something special. At the same time, the sport offers enormous scope for creativity and innovation, both in choreography and in expression. That versatility appeals to me to this day.
4. How can a World Championships in Frankfurt raise the profile of rhythmic gymnastics in Germany?
The World Championships offer a great opportunity to make rhythmic gymnastics more visible in Germany. Thanks to the successes of recent years, particularly those of Darja Varfolomeev, the sport has already gained popularity. More people now know what rhythmic gymnastics is all about, and it is increasingly perceived as a demanding competitive sport – no longer just “dancing with a ribbon.” We want to build on that and showcase our sport to an even broader audience.
5. What are you most looking forward to at the Championships?
Most of all, I’m looking forward to the special experience of being able to compete at a home Worlds. You probably only get this opportunity once in a lifetime. For me, the main priority is that we, as a team, can focus on our own performances and fully realise our potential. If we succeed in doing that, it will be an unforgettable experience.
