Gabrielle Bouvier Reflects on Her Euro Final Performance and Future Goals

Gabrielle Bouvier, how do you feel after your Euro final?

A little tired but above all very happy with what I accomplished because I achieved the objective that I had set for myself, namely to get on the podium. I see this silver medal as a reward for all the work I have been doing for years. And then, being able to share my joy with my loved ones who had traveled to The Hague was the icing on the cake.

Wasn’t it too difficult to deal with all these emotions?

Yes, a little, because everything happens very quickly. In one day of competition, we go through all the feelings. But looking back, I savor this first podium in a major international championship because I know that it remains a rare moment in a career even if, on site, after the final, I was above all disappointed.

For what particular reason were you disappointed?

I was sad because I am aware that I could have done better in the final. The Dutchwoman (Paulien Sweers, Editor’s note) was very strong but I also think that I was not able to give everything I had in me. During this last fight, my feelings were clearly less good. It’s a shame but we have to accept it.

Is stress to blame?

Yes, clearly. At this stage of the competition, controlling your emotions is crucial. And obviously, I still have some work to do at this level. In fact, it’s always very complicated for me to manage the waiting time between qualifications and the final block. In The Hague, I was stopped in my tracks for almost 2h30: it’s too long. I probably lost a little impulse during this break. I experienced the same mishap during the European Cup in Graz (in July, Editor’s note) where I finished 2nd and where I also had difficulty managing the intermission. In short, I have trouble completely refocusing when the tournament is interrupted for several hours. This is one of the points on which I still need to improve.

Since your debut on the mat six years ago, your progress has been dazzling. Did you imagine such a success?

Absolutely not. I still remember the time when I was hesitant to get on the tatami mats. At that time, I was still taking dance lessons and I couldn’t imagine myself in judogi, practicing such a different discipline. Everything happened so quickly… Besides, just a year ago, I wouldn’t have believed you if you had told me that I was going to become vice-European champion!

So what has changed between the Gabrielle Bouvier of 2022 and that of this year?

It’s hard to say. Let’s say that I work a lot in training and that I make a lot of sacrifices to go as far as possible. And then, no doubt I gained a little more confidence in myself. Succeeding in good results in A tournaments, at the Belgian championships and in the European Cup reassures me in the idea that I have qualities and that I have my place among the best in my category.

What are your next goals now?

There, I already have my eyes turned towards the next U21 world championships which will take place (in Odivelas, Portugal, Editor’s note) in October. Once again, I’m going there to give my best and take a medal.

2023-09-15 08:31:06
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