From adopted home, Turkish gymnast seeks international glory

ANKARA

Turkish artistic gymnast Adem Asil is taking aim at Paris 2024, hoping to fly the flag of his adopted home high.

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency, Asil said he is writing out his own story.

Asil, who last month bagged a gold at the men’s still rings event of the 51st World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in the United Kingdom, now is working to reach the winner’s circle at the Olympic games and European championships.

"First of all, I want to add a European championship to my medal collection and protect my world champion title at the European title (tournament) held in Antalya in 2023," said the Egyptian-born Turkish gymnast, referring to the famed Turkish resort city.

Asil, who was born in Alexandria, Egypt, said that he started his gymnastics career at the age of 4 thanks to his older brother.

"I was chosen for the Egyptian National Gymnast Team at around age of 13-14 and made great achievements in several international tournaments competing for Egypt before coming to Türkiye in 2017," he added.

Missing his family

On his next target, Asil said dedication and discipline are some of the crucial elements for success.

"Making it to the top step in the Olympics was one of my targets on the way to the Olympics. My goal was to be the best, and for this, I came to Türkiye."

Asked about his background, he said that his family still lives in Egypt but he hasn’t seen them since he came to Türkiye, and he misses them.

"I hope my longing for my family will end soon. If you really want to be successful, you have to make sacrifices. Success is never served up to you on a platter," he explained.

The 23-year-old added that he changed his name from Abdelrahman Elgamal to Adem Asil.

"I wanted to be someone different because I changed my country, my character, and my mind."

The Paris Olympics will take place in July and August 2024.