Post-training Interview with Kenzo Shirai and Wataru Tanigawa

Kenzo Shirai (JPN)

(After completing his first podium training)
“This was my first time in this venue, so I was able to practice enjoying the lighting, the position of the clock, and all the details because it was my first time to practice here. After withdrawing the American Cup, the way I think about gymnastics has changed dramatically. I have been attending graduate school since this April, and my daily cycle and other things have changed. With this, I want to challenge the competition as if it is my first step, and I cherish it.”

(The condition including the ankle etc.)
“I was not in a good condition during the American Cup that I did not enter. Later, I hurt my ankle while doing Ri Jong-Song two weeks ago. I went back into a condition in which I could not even walk. So now is not a time to think about my condition if it’s good or bad. But despite that I cannot perform difficult techniques, I can still do floor and vault, and I can make a landing. And even more, I can still do gymnastics. I am very thankful for my trainers and juniors who helped me be able to compete in only two weeks, and many others who have supported me in many ways. I want to show my gratitude through my performance.

(His goal at the World Cup)
“Since I withdrew from the American Cup, this my first competition to enter since the Toyota International (in December 2018). I want to enjoy while being aware of my physical condition, and do the best I can in performance so that it leads to the Japan National Championship.

Wataru Tanigawa (JPN)

(After completing his first podium training)
“It was the first time performing in the gymnasium for me too, but I didn’t feel like this venue is different from the others so much. I have been practicing for the Japan National Championships, and I think I was able to maintain my condition and perform as usual.”

(How he feels about the introduction of technology in scoring?)
“I didn’t think about it and I still don’t, but once the system is introduced, elements such as the accuracy and angle will be observed more carefully than before, so I will not be able to score only by giving a good impression.
Judges used to be lenient to the gymnasts who had great momentum.
With the machine scoring, such gymnasts will be scored precisely, and I think that is good because that will be fair.

(Goal)
“This is the first time entering in a competition since the Toyota International for me as well, but I want to give a good performance with momentum to the Japan National Championships.”