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.
How does Vincent Lindpointner feel about his chances of success at the Future Cup and his overall progression toward the Olympics?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner, Aspiring Olympic Gymnast**
**Editor:** Today, we’re speaking with Vincent Lindpointner, a rising star in the gymnastics world and a hopeful for the 2028 and 2032 Olympics. Vincent, you’ve put in a tremendous amount of effort training nine times a week. How has that dedication shaped your gymnastics career so far?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me! Training so often, up to 28 hours a week, has really helped me refine my skills and build my strength. It’s not just about physical preparation; it’s also about mental toughness. Each day I step into the gym, I’m focused on improving and learning something new.
**Editor:** You’ve had some incredible achievements already, like winning a bronze medal at the Junior European Championships. How do you feel about your progression as a gymnast?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Winning that medal was a pivotal moment for me. It made me realize that I’m capable of competing at a high level. I know there’s a long road ahead, especially with so many talented gymnasts vying for Olympic spots, but every competition, like the Future Cup, gives me valuable experience.
**Editor:** Speaking of the Future Cup, this is an important event for you, as it will be your last as a junior. What are your expectations going into it this year?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’m really excited! The Future Cup has always felt like a small World Cup to me, and I’m proud to compete alongside some of the best young gymnasts. I aim to put in a strong performance in the all-around and hopefully bring home another medal for my team.
**Editor:** You’ve had past success in this competition, including winning gold with your team last year. What do you think has contributed to your success in events like this?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** The support from my coaches, especially Michal Zoha, has been vital. The environment here is competitive yet encouraging, and it pushes me to do my best. Plus, competing with my teammates motivates me to strive for excellence.
**Editor:** Lastly, as you look towards the Olympics in the coming years, what does that dream mean to you?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** The Olympics is the pinnacle of achievement in gymnastics—it’s the ultimate goal. The thought of representing Austria on such a grand stage keeps me motivated every day. I know it’s going to be a tough journey, but that dream is what fuels my passion and hard work.
**Editor:** Thank you, Vincent, for sharing your insights. We wish you the best of luck at the Future Cup and on your journey toward the Olympics!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate the support!