What it’s like to experience a continental artistic gymnastics final
Olympics.com: What does it feel like to make history for Spain?
Alba Petisco: It’s such an honour to be the first Spanish woman to win a silver medal in the all-around. We’re all super happy with this achievement.
What was that moment like, when you realised you were making history?
AP: Honestly, I don’t know – I wouldn’t even know how to describe how I felt in that moment because I just couldn’t believe it. I was on cloud nine and wasn’t focused on what I was feeling or not feeling. I was simply enjoying the moment, honestly.
Were you aware of it during the competition?
AP: During the competition, I was just focused on doing my job, nothing more. But it’s true that after beam, I went to the bathroom for a moment, and when I came back, I saw one of the gymnasts ahead of me fall. That’s when I thought, “This game is serious now.” In that moment, I became a bit more aware. I started to realise that maybe I could snag something (laughs).
What did you feel inside at that point?
AP: At that point, I got really nervous. We were waiting to switch apparatus – floor was the only one left and it’s one of my best events. I was extremely nervous. I had to sit on the stairs, looked at my coach, and said, “I’m nervous.” I think it was one of the first times I’ve been able to describe that feeling: at that moment, I was terrified.
When you finished your floor routine and saw everything had gone well, did you breathe a sigh of relief?
AP: Yes, the nerves definitely eased a lot because floor was the only thing left, and honestly, I felt a huge, huge rush of euphoria when I finished.
How did you handle that euphoria?
AP: When I returned to Spain that weekend, I had a few days off and went home. With family and friends, we definitely celebrated, though not too much, because training had to continue.
What did your inner circle say to you?
AP: They were super proud. They said I was one of the ones who deserved it most, that I’d worked so hard, and that they were incredibly happy for me.