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 message does Vincent Lindpointner have for aspiring young gymnasts?
**Interviewer:** Today, we’re joined by Vincent Lindpointner, a rising star in gymnastics who is gearing up for his final appearance as a junior at this year’s Future Cup in Linz. Vincent, thanks for being here!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me!
**Interviewer:** You’ve been training extremely hard, up to 28 hours a week. Can you tell us a bit about your training regimen and what that involves?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Sure! My training is very comprehensive. I work on all the different apparatuses, focusing on technique, strength, and flexibility. It’s a rigorous schedule, but I’m passionate about gymnastics, so all the hours spent feel worthwhile. The dedication is necessary if I want to achieve my goal of competing in the Olympics.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of the Olympics, you’ve stated that you aim to compete in 2028 or 2032. What do you think it will take to reach that level?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s going to be very challenging, especially with so many talented gymnasts out there. I’ll need to continue improving, stay healthy, and gain as much experience as possible in competitions like the Future Cup. The mental aspect is just as important, so I’m constantly working on that too.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the Future Cup. This is your last chance to compete as a junior. What has your experience been like in previous editions?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’ve had a great time at the Future Cup in the past. Winning gold with my team last year was a huge highlight, and I’ve always been inspired by seeing so many talented gymnasts from around the world. I’m definitely looking forward to this year’s competition – aiming for a strong performance in the all-around.
**Interviewer:** Given the notable champions who have competed there, like Shinnosuke Oka and Max Whitlock, how does it feel to be part of such a prestigious event?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s incredible! Just being in the same arena with past champions feels like a dream. It motivates me to push harder and aspire to reach their level. It’s a unique experience where I can learn and grow.
**Interviewer:** what message do you have for young gymnasts who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** My message would be to work hard, stay dedicated, and never give up on your dreams. There will be challenges, but if you believe in yourself and stay committed, anything is possible!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Vincent, for sharing your insights, and we wish you the best of luck at the Future Cup and beyond!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate it!
