Shinnosuke Oka, this year’s Olympic champion with Japan’s team and on the parallel bars, has already been here in the past, as has the Briton Max Whitlock, who also has two gold medals at home. For 20 years now, many of the world’s best young gymnasts have come together to compete at the Future Cup in the TipsArena in Linz. “It’s like a small World Cup,” says Upper Austria’s association boss Helmut Kranzlmüller, not without pride. It was he who came up with the idea for it in 2004, on the 22nd/23rd. The competition, which has grown over the years, will enter its 19th edition in November, with talent from 21 nations expected this time. But the local hopefuls don’t need to hide either.
A few kilometers further down at the winter harbor near the Danube, the gymnasts have had their base camp for several years. And when Vincent Lindpointner doesn’t have something to learn during his high school year, he spends his time here in the performance center under the supervision of national coach Michal Zoha. Much time. Nine times a week, up to 28 hours, to be exact, as the 18-year-old from Leonding explains. And he approaches it every day with great ambition. “My big goal is the Olympics in 2028 or 2032 at the latest,” he says. A thoroughly ambitious and difficult undertaking in an absolutely world sport in which there are many contenders for only a few qualifying places. But the determined Lindpointner has enormous potential, as the Junior European Championships bronze medal on the rings that he won this year underlines. Only one Austrian in history had achieved this before him. And at the Future Cup – this year is his last as a junior – Lindpointner has often had a big appearance in the past, won gold with the team in 2022 and is expecting a lot again this year in the supreme discipline of the all-around.
Felix Neumüller is four years younger than him and the Mühlviertler also wants to go far in gymnastics. The anticipation for his first Future Cup is great. “It’s just a cool competition because so many top people come here,” says the young talent.
What key experiences have shaped Vincent Lindpointner’s journey as a gymnast leading up to the Future Cup?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner: Rising Star at the Future Cup**
*Interviewer*: Vincent, it’s great to have you here ahead of the 19th Austrian TGW Future Cup. You’ve competed here before and even won gold with your team last year. What makes this competition special for you?
*Vincent Lindpointner*: Thank you! The Future Cup is like a mini World Cup – it gathers some of the best young talents from around the globe, which creates an incredible atmosphere. Competing alongside such skilled gymnasts is both inspiring and motivating. It’s also a great opportunity to showcase my abilities on an international stage.
*Interviewer*: You mentioned the competition’s atmosphere. With talents from 21 nations participating this year, how do you feel about the level of competition you’ll face?
*Vincent Lindpointner*: I expect it to be intense! Every competitor here is a serious contender, and they all bring something unique to the table. But I’ve trained hard and learned a lot under my coach Michal Zoha. This year is particularly important for me as it’s my last as a junior, so I’m eager to end on a high note.
*Interviewer*: Speaking of your training, you mentioned that you’ve dedicated up to 28 hours a week to gymnastics. How do you maintain your focus and motivation during such an intense schedule?
*Vincent Lindpointner*: It’s definitely challenging, but my ultimate goal keeps me focused: I want to compete at the Olympics, either in 2028 or 2032. That dream drives me every day. Also, having a strong support system, both at the performance center and from my family, helps me stay grounded and motivated.
*Interviewer*: That’s an impressive goal! You’ve already made history by winning a bronze medal at the Junior European Championships on the rings. How did achieving that medal impact your confidence?
*Vincent Lindpointner*: It was a significant boost for me! Knowing that I could accomplish something that only one Austrian had done before gives me a lot of confidence. It proves that hard work pays off and inspires me to aim even higher. I believe that experience will also help me at the Future Cup.
*Interviewer*: Lastly, what advice would you give to younger gymnasts who look up to you and aspire to follow a similar path?
*Vincent Lindpointner*: My advice would be to stay dedicated and keep your passion for the sport alive. Work hard, but also enjoy the journey. Every competition is a learning opportunity. Surround yourself with supportive people, and don’t be afraid to dream big!
*Interviewer*: Thanks, Vincent! Best of luck at the Future Cup. We’re excited to see what you accomplish this year.
*Vincent Lindpointner*: Thank you! I can’t wait to compete!
This interview showcases the passion and dedication of Vincent Lindpointner as he prepares for the Future Cup, highlighting both his achievements and ambitions within the gymnastics world.
