At 17, Kaylia Nemour has made history on Sunday 4th July by becoming the first ever African to win an Olympic medal in the artistic gymnastics, women’s uneven bars. The gold is Algeria’s sixth Olympic medal of this colour since first competing in the Games in Tokyo 1964. The teenager who was born to an Algerian father snd a French mother in Saint-Benoit-la-Foret, France represented France first then switched to Algeria creating a controversy in the country of her birth. Her coach Marc Tcherlinko says his protegee reminds him of Romania legend Nadia.
In a moving interview following her triumphant performance at the Olympics, Kaylia Nemour, an exceptional gymnast specializing in the parallel bars, opened up about her victory and the emotions that accompanied it. Her achievement marks a significant milestone not just for herself but for her country and continent.
“I am very, very happy to have won this medal,” Nemour began, her face glowing with pride. “I don’t fully realize it yet, but I think it will sink in over the coming days. I’m very proud to have brought this first medal for Algeria and Africa; it’s truly amazing.” Her words conveyed a deep sense of accomplishment and a recognition of the broader significance of her win.
Nemour emphasized that during the competition, her focus was unwavering. “During the competition, I didn’t think about the medal at all,” she explained. “I did this for myself, in the name of Algeria. I represent Algeria now; France is behind me, I’ve turned the page.” This statement highlighted her commitment to her Algerian heritage and the pride she feels in representing her father’s homeland.
Nemour also took a moment to mention fellow athlete Imane Khelif, expressing her support and solidarity. “I think it’s great to have such cohesion between different sports. She supports me, and I support her,” she said. “In any case, I am wholeheartedly behind her.” This show of camaraderie and mutual encouragement underscores the unity among Algerian athletes, as they strive to excel in their respective fields.
She also expressed gratitude for the support from her team and the Algerian Gymnastics Federation, which played a crucial role in her preparation. “With our small group, we worked at the club to ensure she could prepare in the best conditions. We were able to do training camps abroad thanks to the Algerian Federation, which provided us with the means.”
Nemour’s victory is not only a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for many. She spoke about her connection to her roots and the importance of embracing her identity. “She got closer to her father’s origins, and for me, who is also of Moldovan descent and not French, I think it’s a wonderful gift.”
In her concluding remarks, Nemour reflected on the deeper meaning of her win, drawing a parallel to the legendary gymnast Nadia Comăneci. “It’s not just a medal; it’s a medal she went for with all her heart. Today, it is carried by Algeria and the Algerian Federation, but it is her work.”
Kaylia Nemour’s success is a powerful testament to her skill, dedication, and the strength of embracing one’s cultural identity. Her journey serves as an inspiration to future athletes from Algeria, Africa, and around the world, showcasing the impact of determination and pride in one’s heritage.
