“Knowing how to impose your style”: Carcassonnaise Estelle Gaspard looks back on her fourth gold medal at the jujitsu world championships

You have won the title of world champion four times since 2019. How do you prepare for a meeting of such importance?

I trained in the same way as previous times, alongside the AJOA club (Alliance Judo Ouest Audois) in Carcassonne, with the president as well as the other licensees. This year, I was forced to practice at a lower intensity since I recently started giving jujitsu classes. Obviously, it takes time, so I organized my schedule accordingly by scheduling sessions at home, for example. In addition, I am accompanied by the French team. I participated in five courses in total, lasting several days each time, which took place between the end of August and October.

How many fights did you do on the big day? Which one represented a real obstacle?

I faced three individual opponents and participated in two team fights. We also won the gold medal in this category. I must admit that the first confrontation against the Italian was very difficult. I always have a little trouble getting into the competition but it ended well for me.

You have acquired a certain fame. Do you adopt specific strategies taking into account that your opponents know you?

It is true that a few years ago I was presented as the outsider (who is not among the favorites, Editor’s note). Now my status has changed. I notice changes in behavior. On the other hand, I stick to my way of doing things. I start from the principle that you have to rely on what you are good at and not adapt to your opponent. In short, knowing how to impose your style.

After this new decoration, what is the rest of the program?

I am now looking forward to the French championships next February as well as the European championships. 2025 is a special year since I will also be preparing for the World Games which are taking place in China from August 7 to 17.