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 motivated Vincent Lindpointner to dedicate 28 hours a week to gymnastics training?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner: Aspirations and Challenges Ahead of the Future Cup**
**Editor:** Today, we’re speaking with Vincent Lindpointner, an 18-year-old gymnast from Leonding, who has made significant strides in the sport and is preparing to compete in the upcoming Future Cup. Vincent, thank you for joining us!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me!
**Editor:** First off, how do you feel about participating in the Future Cup for the last time as a junior?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s bittersweet. I’ve had some amazing experiences at the Future Cup in the past, especially winning gold with my team last year. This competition means a lot to me, and I want to make my last appearance as a junior memorable.
**Editor:** You’ve trained intensively—up to 28 hours a week under national coach Michal Zoha. How does that rigorous schedule impact your daily life and aspirations?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It definitely takes a lot of dedication! Balancing high school and gymnastics is challenging, but I’m passionate about my goals. I know that the hard work will pay off in the long run, especially with my sights set on the Olympics in 2028 or 2032.
**Editor:** With such high aspirations, how do you stay motivated amidst the tough competition?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I focus on my training and remind myself of my achievements, like winning bronze at the Junior European Championships. I also draw inspiration from athletes like Shinnosuke Oka and Max Whitlock, who’ve succeeded on the Olympic stage. Their journeys motivate me to push through challenges.
**Editor:** Given the nature of gymnastics, where the competition is fierce and only a few qualify for the Olympics, what do you think sets you apart from other young gymnasts?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I believe my determination and work ethic set me apart. I’ve learned from each competition and practice, and I’m not afraid to push my limits. I also have a fantastic support team, which makes a huge difference.
**Editor:** What are your expectations for this year’s Future Cup?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I aim to perform my best in the all-around and hopefully bring home another medal. Competing against talents from 21 nations is exciting! I want to show everyone what I’ve worked for.
**Editor:** what message do you want to send to young gymnasts who look up to you?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I want to tell them to dream big and work hard. Every bit of effort counts, and even when things get tough, keep pushing. Believe in yourself, and don’t shy away from challenges!
**Editor:** Thank you, Vincent! We wish you the best of luck at the Future Cup and in your journey toward the Olympics!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate it!
