Seljan Mahsudova, a well-known Azerbaijani trampoline gymnast and participant in the Paris Olympics, has made a successful start to the autumn stage of the season. Our athlete, together with her brother Magsud Mahsudov, won a gold medal in synchronized trampoline for mixed pairs at the World Cup held in Cottbus. During the tournament, Seljan also set a new world record by performing a triple somersault among women.
The gymnast is currently preparing for the World Championships and the CIS Games, which will start in Ganja in the near future. Seljan Mahsudova spoke to Idman.biz about her future plans and competitions.
– You started the second half of the season with a gold medal. You and your brother Magsud won in synchronized trampoline. How exciting was the competition for you?
– It was the first time we performed together at the World Cup. We were very happy with this result. We were proud to hear our national anthem. In particular, Magsud's bronze medal in the individual event also brought special joy. This was his first start among adults and the result was very inspiring.
– This is your third award in mixed synchronized since the beginning of the year. Can we say that you already feel comfortable in this category?
– I am comfortable, but I am still adjusting. Because I used to perform only individually, I never had a partner. It's a little difficult to get used to, but we're working on it. In addition, synchronized trampoline for mixed pairs has been included in the international calendar since this season, and there is a fight for medals in all competitions.
– You broke a world record by performing a triple somersault in Cottbus. What are your feelings about this?
– I am very happy that I achieved my dream and set a record. A quadruple somersault is very difficult for women. No one has ever done this in competitions before. I took a risk and succeeded. But this is not the end. We have more complex combinations in our plans!
– Despite such an achievement, were you not disappointed that you could not win a medal?
– Of course, I would like to take a medal too. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. But my coach always says that you don't need to focus on bad results. We will analyze the tricks and work on the mistakes.
– How is the preparation for the World Championship going?
– Preparation is very serious. There I will compete in both individual performance and mixed synchronized with my brother Magsud.
– What are your expectations regarding the new Olympic cycle and Los Angeles?
– Selection for the Summer Olympics will begin in 2027. We have big plans – we want to win 3 licenses for the country. We have opportunities. We will try to show the maximum result and take advantage of this opportunity, and we want to make history again.
– The III CIS Games are starting in Ganja in the coming days. What do you expect from the team?
– This is the first time that trampoline gymnastics has been included in the CIS Games program. There will be competitions in four types. Our main goal is to represent our country with dignity. At the same time, we also have chances to win medals. We will do our best.
Zaki Feyzullayev