Eldar Safarov: “I would like to perform with dignity and not disappoint the team at the European Championships” 

We are less than 2 weeks away from the 1^st European Games commencing in Baku on June 12 which feature 20 sports including gymnastics disciplines. 

Along with other gymnastic disciplines, Men’s Artistic Gymnastics is also included into the program of the European Games. In Azerbaijan, Artistic Gymnastics began its development in the 30s of the last century. And the first Republican Championship in this discipline was held in Baku in 1939.

We would like to know how you have started to engage in gymnastics. Why did you choose this sport discipline?

I started gymnastics at the age of six and it became my favorite occupation. I think my interest comes from the fact that I couldn’t sit quietly in one place when I was a child.

How do you think, could you have proved yourself in any other sport?

I think I could have done it. I am a versatile person and I like different sports disciplines. For example, I enjoy wrestling and boxing.

How do you manage to overcome your emotions on the day of competitions? Are there any special secrets of self-control?

I am trying to control myself and keep calm. I think the biggest secret is a good preparation. 

What do you think is the most important thing in any sport? 

Three are three most important things for me, which are - wish, patience and confidence. These factors help me both in sports and in my life.

How dangerous is it to be engaged in professional sports? 

All sports disciplines have their own elements of risk, and, of course, it is level depends on the discipline. To avoid the injury, you need to be fully concentrated on trainings.   

Do you have an idol in sport? 

Yes, of course, I have. This is a five-time World Champion - Kohei Uchimura. He is a legendary man.

Please tell us about your sport plans for the near future. 

The European Games is about to start. For me, it is a very big event. Naturally, I would like to perform with dignity and not disappoint the team.

What do European Games mean for you and how are you preparing for them?

The European Games are very serious and responsible competitions, especially, when these Games are held in my homeland. I hope I will perform successfully and will show good results.

If we move a little bit away from sport - do you have any aspirations or dreams which you wish to realize? 

Yes, of course, as an every young man I also do. I have plans and dreams, which I would like to realize. But, today, the most important plans are related to sport.

Are you able to combine sport with normal life?

Oh, it is not easy at all. I have trainings every day. I do not have enough time to do something else, but from time to time, I try to meet with my friends.  

Please tell us about your family.

My parents support me at each competition for which I am very grateful to them.

I also have a younger sister who is also found of gymnastics.

Do you have a beloved one?

As I already noted, I do not have enough time for my private life.

How do your fans usually cheer you and what do you want to hear from them?

“Eldar, go ahead!” “We believe in you, Eldar!”

What would you like to tell them?

Thank you very much for your support, it is very important for me.