Interview: European title gave Alexandra Efraimoglou (GRE) a massive confidence boost

At the 2024 European Championships in Trampoline, Double Mini-Trampoline and Tumbling in the Portuguese city of Guimaraes, Greece’s Alexandra Efraimoglou claimed her first big international victory in Tumbling. “I think it's the best gymnastics year ever for me in my career. So many emotions, and I'm so proud of myself this year,” Efraimoglou told European Gymnastics in an exclusive interview. “Basically, this year was a bit different for me because I tried to motivate myself every day and remind myself of why I love this sport so much. I tried to be the best version of myself every day and kept pushing myself. So it wasn't that much about a single competition and preparing for that. It was more trying to be better and when the competition comes preparing for that and setting goals.”

Going into the biennial Europeans as a medal contender, Efraimoglou felt confident: “Actually, I was really confident and I was -I think- at my best, physically and mentally as well. So I was really excited going to Europeans and I knew that I had some great routines prepared. In some past competitions I had problems competing under pressure, like doing the best routine when I have to, for example in the finals. So this time I really worked towards that, mostly mentally. Because I was so confident and sure about my routines, I of course was nervous, but I knew that I could do the things that I had to, and that's what I did.”  

 

With the support of her family and friends, Efraimoglou proudly received her first European gold medal.  “Of course my family was there. My coach was there. My friends were there. My teammates were there. So I got a big hug. And after the competition, we had the party going on. That's where we celebrated”, Efraimoglou explained. “[Their support] means the world to me! After the final, everyone was so emotional. Including me. I felt the love of my teammates, my competitors as well, because we all know each other after the many competitions and we support each other. So being with them and feeling that they're happy for me meant a lot.”

Becoming the European Champion has been a game-changer for Efraimoglou: “Yeah, definitely things have changed. It boosted my confidence because I proved myself that I can do things and it was very reassuring for me. Also, it really reminded me of why I love this sport and all this hard work and trainings over the years, finally paid off. Also, it's different how other people see you while having a title as a European Champion is something huge, of course, and it's great to see people appreciate that.”

Well done Alexandra!