Fabian Vogel comes eleventh in Paris

Fabian Vogel, one of Germany’s only trampoline gymnasts at the Paris Olympics, put in a remarkable performance despite a few challenges. The 29-year-old athlete from MTV Bad Kreuznach and two-time champion in synchronised trampolining (which does not feature at the Olympics) was fulfilling a long-held dream by competing.

In the first qualifying round on Friday (2 August 2024) in front of more than 10,000 spectators in the Bercy Arena, Vogel was unlucky enough to come off the jumping area, causing a small injury to his right foot and bringing his routine to an end. Despite these hindrances, he was able to appear in the second round with a bandaged foot and achieve a score of 56,890. This meant that he only just missed out in being in the top eight and finished in eleventh place. ‘I lost height on the jump in the second routine, so I had to fight quite hard.’

I am of course disappointed that my performance was not ideal overall. I know what I can do in trampolining and I could have reached the final. 

The visit by Germany’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock, who has a personal connection to trampolining, was no surprise. Baerbock, who used to be an active competitive gymnast, was showing her support for the German gymnastics team and Fabian Vogel. Sadly, her appearing during Vogel’s competition did not provide the boost of luck the team had hoped for, but her presence was a huge honour for Fabian and the whole team.

Despite missing out on the final, Fabian Vogel can be very proud of his performance. 

As the days go by, his disappointment will doubtless give way to a realisation that he has gained valuable experience that will make him stronger to face future challenges.