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 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 factors have contributed to Vincent Lindpointner’s success in gymnastics at such a young age?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner: Rising Star of Gymnastics**
*Editor:* Welcome, Vincent! It’s great to have you with us today. You’ve been training really hard; can you tell us a bit about your journey so far?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Thank you for having me! It’s been quite a journey. I train at the performance center under national coach Michal Zoha, and it takes up a significant part of my life. I train about 28 hours a week, which is quite demanding, especially while also balancing my high school commitments. But every moment spent training is an investment into my dream of competing in the Olympics.
*Editor:* You mentioned the Olympics; what motivates you to aim for such a challenging goal?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* The Olympics are the pinnacle of our sport. The thought of representing Austria on such a prestigious stage drives me every day. I want to push my limits and show that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. Plus, the spirit of competition inspires me—the best gymnasts from around the world coming together is truly exciting.
*Editor:* Speaking of competition, you have the Future Cup coming up. This will be your last year as a junior. How do you feel about that?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* I’m excited! The Future Cup has always been a significant event for me. I’ve had some great experiences there, including a gold medal with the team last year. I’m looking forward to giving it my all in the all-around this year. Competing against so many talented gymnasts pushes me to improve and perform at my best.
*Editor:* It’s impressive to see your dedication at such a young age. You’ve also had success at the Junior European Championships. How does that victory influence your mindset going into this event?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Winning that bronze medal on the rings was a huge affirmation for me. It showed that I can compete at a high level against Europe’s best. It boosts my confidence and motivates me; I want to build on that momentum at the Future Cup and show that I belong among the elite.
*Editor:* Last question—what advice would you give to younger gymnasts who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* I would say, never underestimate the power of hard work and perseverance. Set clear goals, stay focused, and always be ready to learn. Surround yourself with supportive coaches and teammates, and don’t be afraid to push beyond your limits. The journey might be tough, but every step is worth it!
*Editor:* Thank you so much, Vincent! We wish you the best of luck at the Future Cup and beyond. Your ambitions and dedication are truly inspiring!
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Thank you! I appreciate it!