From September 14th to 16th, Berlin hosts best Karatekas of the world to begintheir Olympic race. For this first competition of the season in Europe, the young rising star of French Karate, Gwendoline Philippe (U21 and two-times Junior World champion, -61 kg) aims nothing but victory.

By Florian Fournier
Photos : K-Photos

What is your physical shape today ?

I am on my way back. After a slight accident that caused me a concussion, my preparation was cut off and I just started training two weeks ago. Despite all this, I feel good and my sensations are good. If I still have some headache, jaw or cervical pains, I do with it and I train to overcome them and be better.

Do you still feel able to win this competition ?

Exactly. For a competition that lasts a week, it would have been more difficult because I still can not do a heavy workload. But on a two-days competition, with 5 fights, I feel totally able to go to the end.

You will be more expected and more monitored this season. Do you fear it ?

Not at all. I still have a lot to learn but my youth is also an advantage on the mats. I know that time is in on my side. Months after months, I will get better and keep involving in my Karate. I have to keep doing what I have always done since the beginning : do not ask myself question and take all victories.

Can a success in Berlin provide you a ticket for the Madrid World Championships (November 6-11)?

All successes are good and get you closer to the goal. This season, like everyone else, I want to be World champion and qualify for the Olympics. So I have to win as much as possible. Then, to know if a victory in Berlin will give me a ticket for Madrid, only the national staff knows it.