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French Champion Gaëlle RUIZ.

First, could you tell us a few words about yourself?

I have been practicing women's wrestling for 17 years, and for the past 10 years, I have been involved in high-level sports. At the age of 12, I left my family home to join the French Form training center, followed by those in Clermont-Ferrand and Dijon, as well as the French national team. Currently, I am at the INSEP (National Institute of Sport, Expertise, and Performance).

What led you to pursue high-level women's wrestling?

Watching my brother wrestle in a club inspired me to engage in this sport. At the age of 6 - 7, I stepped onto the mat, and since then, I haven't looked back. I knew from the beginning that I was determined.
You are preparing for your STAPS (Science and Techniques of Physical and Sports Activities) degree. How do you manage to balance studies and high-level sports?
Thanks to the sports studies program, I have arrangements that allow me to progress with a daily alternation of classes and training. It's an intensive and demanding rhythm that I have become accustomed to, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

In addition to national competitions with many successes, what is your international journey like?

My first competitions date back to 2016, where I secured a third-place position at the Gymnasiades. Later, I participated in the European Championships, and in 2019, I achieved the 5th place. In 2023, I ranked 3rd at the World University Championships and first at the World Championships for under 23 years.

You are currently in Kinshasa for the 9th edition of the Francophonie Games.
What significance do you attach to this competition?

I see these games as an important step for next year, similar to the Olympics. It involves intensive training at INSEP, focusing on technical improvement. Kinshasa marks a stepping stone as the World Championships are scheduled for September 2024, followed by Olympic qualification competitions in early 2024. I am going to Kinshasa not only for the competition but also to enjoy the atmosphere and have fun.

You have a staff accompanying you for the games. In general, what does their support mean to you?

The staff's support is crucial, and I am fortunate to have great support from my coaches, the federation, and INSEP. The coaching team observes us during training, listens to us, and guides us in our performance, which is very important.
I have never been completely alone; this has helped shape me and made me stronger. Today, I can say that wrestling has molded the person I am.

From a gender equality standpoint, what is the situation in your opinion today?

Wrestling involves a confrontation of strengths, which has traditionally been viewed as very masculine. It took time for female wrestlers to find their place and be recognized for their true worth. But now, we've made progress: high-level female athletes perform exceptionally. Women are winning more medals at the European and global levels, and they are fully expressing themselves in these disciplines.
This motivates me because female wrestlers inspire others. We uplift all those young girls who are eager but hesitant. We help them take the leap and engage in women's wrestling.
This role of being a relay is important; it's part of the job, especially as we contribute to the advancement of women in society.

What is your mindset for the competitions at the Francophonie Games?

I have a perfectly organized training program, and I have complete trust in the INSEP staff. I will train hard regardless of the result and be satisfied and confident that I have given it my all for it.