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Ntv.de: Ms. Kaufmann, do you have a favorite bedtime story?
Annett Kaufmann: I need to think about it. "Rapunzel" and "The Gingerbread Man" from the Brothers Grimm have always been my go-to tales.
Long tresses complementing the wit and bravery of the cat: Your stellar performance at the Paris Olympic Games, securing a fourth place in the team event, was nothing short of enchanting.
If someone had told me a year ago how my first Olympic Games would turn out, I'd have been astonished and would have jumped at the chance immediately. I could never have envisioned a more fabulous debut at the Olympics. That everything fell into place and perfectly complemented each other can indeed be called a fairy tale.
Initially, you were nominated as a backup athlete. Then Rio-2016 silver medalist Ying Han got injured, and Nina Mittelham's back issue flared up during the individual competition in Paris. How did you handle the sudden opportunity to compete?
I had heard from other athletes that the Olympic tournament was a whole different ballgame and there was an excessive amount of jitters and mental stress because the Olympics only happens every four years. Honestly, though, I must admit that I was remarkably calm before every game.
Suddenly in the midst of the world stage, in the fiery Parisian cauldron. And no stage fright whatsoever?
Generally, I'm someone who doesn't get stage fright and enjoys speaking before large audiences. This cauldron, therefore, had a positive impact on me. Also, I have been playing table tennis for 14 years and have accumulated a fair share of experiences.
I was never as calm as I was at the Olympics. I usually have some thoughts before games, such as if something doesn't go well during warm-ups. But in Paris, everything was different. I don't know the reason, but I had a profound peace within me, even when things didn't work out.
From backup athlete, you've become the team leader: What was running through your mind when you went to bed every night in Paris?
What should I have for breakfast the following morning. (laughs) Other than that, I stayed in touch with my good friend from Egypt, who is also a table tennis player, and we planned the next day in the Olympic village. I truly didn't stress myself. Overall, this success in Paris only occurred because we were a strong team. Each member played an essential role.
Sounds like the exuberance of youth. Are you scared of losing that in the future?
No, that's just who I am. I learned this ease at many tournaments in my childhood. But also the relationship with my family, my parents and my sister Alexandra, who were athletes as well, helped me. They are my 'psychiatrists' that I can always talk to. If I continue down this path, then I won't lose this exuberance. But if I do, then I know for sure that I want it back.
During your journey to the Olympic semi-finals, you moved your teammates to tears multiple times. Do you have a favorite moment from the tournament?
That was when I clinched the match point that secured our entry into the semifinals. I was elated and overwhelmed. When I ran to the girls, I saw everyone crying and still in shock. I said, "Guys, why are you crying? We're in the semifinals!" But I understood their emotions naturally, it was a liberating moment because a massive burden of the entire year had been lifted off all of us.
Did you feel that you had triggered euphoria in Germany due to your performances and emotions on the site?
Emotions are a part of sports, yet athletes are sometimes labeled as too emotional. If you invest several years into preparing for the Olympics to deliver an exceptional performance, it's bound to release emotions, whether you succeed or not. I think it's essential to show that we're human, not robots. Successes and failures, anything can happen. I received many messages that people were happy for us, and I was thrilled that I could promote our sport because table tennis in Germany is never as popular as football. Some wrote that they had returned to their hobby of table tennis because of me, which is a fantastic feeling.
You were emotional after the 3-0 win in the semifinals against Miwa Harimoto, the world number eight from Japan.
Sometimes, you underestimate yourself too much, and I am a grounded person. That game demonstrated to me what I'm capable of. That I'm able to beat top-ten players when I'm at my highest level. I can now remind myself of these thoughts when things aren't going so well at the table.
You even placed your hands on your face in disbelief.
That win was one of the signs on my journey that showed me I'm on the right track. The success also gave me a boost in self-confidence: That despite a full year where I couldn't prepare much for the Olympics, and thanks to a judicious combination of my training and mental preparation, I can beat top players. I'm sure Harimoto will now conduct a thorough analysis of my game, but I will do the same. (laughs)
How much video analysis is there in table tennis, actually?
I used to just dive into the game without a plan because I have a specific tactic, and in the first set, I'd search for my opponent's weaknesses. I still do that today, but we also had a video analyst at the Olympics who compiled sequences of our opponents' strengths and weaknesses for us. I tried to pick out the right components, especially for the first set.
The Paris tournament concluded a few weeks ago, and it's common to hear athletes mention post-Olympic slumps. Have you experienced such a low after the high?
I'm generally content and pretty pleased. However, it felt a bit surreal. As a youngster, I used to envision playing at the Olympics. The real experience didn't quite match my imagination, not because it was disappointing, but because the difference between the Olympics and other tournaments wasn't as stark as I anticipated. Sometimes, I still find it hard to believe that I'm 18 and have already participated in European Championships, World Championships, and the Olympics. I'm just eager to see what the future holds.
Some athletes are overjoyed at achieving a fantastic fourth place in their debut Games, while others are upset about setbacks in the semifinals and bronze medal match. Which type are you?
A mix. Fourth place isn't something to celebrate. You're so near to a medal and then you end up empty-handed. Naturally, I was a tad disheartened after losing the bronze match, but I quickly focused on the positive aspects. Humans tend to concentrate too much on negative experiences. I don't want to reminisce about Paris with a sense of negativity later on. Every experience has its significance, and you can derive something beneficial from every situation. Additionally, I hope these weren't my last Olympic Games.
You once mentioned that as a child, you aspired to have as many trophies as your older sister Alexandra. Was sibling rivalry your driving force in your career?
Indisputably. When she brought a trophy home, especially if it was impressive, I would covertly hold it. It wasn't that I wanted her to be without it I just yearned to win such a trophy for myself. My older sister has always played a crucial role in my life. If I ever manage to win an Olympic medal, I would gladly share it with her.
As a left-hander, is your handedness an advantage in table tennis?
I believe so. With my backhand, I have a good angle against an opponent's forehand. Also, I don't compete against left-handers frequently due to the small number of left-handers in table tennis. I don't particularly relish playing against left-handers; it feels like playing against myself. When I compete against right-handers, I don't have to adjust as much as they do when facing me. They must alter their strategies slightly. By the way, I'm a pseudo-left-hander. (laughs) I write with my right hand, throw with my right hand, and use my right hand to cut with scissors. I play football with my left foot and in volleyball, I can spike with both hands.
What training hours did you invest as a child and adolescent to develop your exceptional angles and powerful shots?
Many people believe I train extensively. I simply viewed table tennis as a pastime until I turned 18. I used to practice for approximately 90 minutes daily, five times a week.
Only that much?
Only that much. I prefer that rhythm as a player. Of course, I went through rigorous training phases during specific periods of my life, and my sister and multiple coaches have taught me a great deal. Collaborating with my former U15 coach, who is now the German U19 coach, Lara Broich, I had to play over the corner of the table with towels. I detested that exercise back then, but it's still useful to me, and I still do it.
Your captivating body language and boundless energy during matches are characteristic of you. Can one learn to be that passionate?
I just express my emotions and never give up, fighting until the last point. I aim to not concede a single point. The pushing helps me, and it also demonstrates to my opponents that they have a tough battle ahead.
Did you practice your almost intimidating fist celebration in front of the mirror?
No, I've done that since I was a child. My mother has been my coach when it comes to handling specific situations. I simply scream out my fear, anger, or joy.
You attack extremely aggressively. Are you fearless in general?
I'm not lacking in courage, and I enjoy going all out. My height and strength make my game look aggressive to opponents. I play by the principle: violence is a solution. Not always, but it is at the table. (laughs)
After losing the German Championship final 0:4 in 2023, you won the title in 2024 while also graduating, and then caused a stir in Paris. How did you enhance your game and self in that one year?
I find it astounding how much one can progress in a year. I've made significant strides mentally. I only discover my advancements after each event, or through my parents' external perspective. I've gained composure and patience, and my current coach has provided me with a wealth of knowledge about myself. He understands me because he's an emotional player as well. This has made me more self-assured and at ease on the table.
Is it sufficient to be an emotional player to surpass the Chinese at the top of the rankings, or do you need to develop a specific playing system?
Anything can happen, even the Chinese are just like everyone else. Someone had to break the mold. In the world of men's table tennis, Sweden and France have already challenged the norm. Although Asian women aredominant in this field, I enter every match with the belief that I can outplay my opponent. In layman's terms: Even the Chinese get sweating when they face off against a talented European.
Ever ponder if dedicating your life to table tennis at such a young age might keep you from experiencing some of your youth's joys?
I strike a nice balance. My loved ones have always encouraged me. Of course, as a teenager, I've missed out on some things, but I've made that decision willingly. It's not like I'm trapped in a occupation I dislike.
Your social media shows you more than just table tennis; beer pong nights are also part of your scene. Is anyone actually able to conquer the Olympic champion at this game?
(laughs) I slay at beer pong too. My pals constantly beg to team up with me. I'm rarely drinking beer and usually opt for something else or just water discretely. It's also fun when people believe they can beat me without knowing I'm a table tennis pro, and then I send ball after ball over the table.
Abitur, German Championship, Olympics: Did you have a 'Swift Summer' like Taylor Swift, or are you more of a Kamala Harris supporter, rocking colorful bracelets as a true Swiftie?
My summer was awesome, intense, and wild: After Abitur, the Olympics, and some well-deserved vacation, there's no school waiting for me in September. That's the ultimate win. I also went to a Taylor Swift concert, which was one of my life's dreams. I'm a fan of her spirit and the way she treats people, and she constantly motivates me. Many people say it's impossible, but I truly want to meet her in person someday. If I ever play beer pong with Taylor Swift, I'll have achieved everything in life. (laughs)
David Bedürftig interviewed Annett Kaufmann
Despite her success at the Paris Olympic Games, Annett Kaufmann still sees her Olympic journey as a fairy tale. She never allowed stage fright to hinder her performance, crediting her calmness to her 14 years of experience in table tennis and her ability to speak before large audiences.
Given that Annett Kaufmann has represented Germany in major table tennis competitions, it would be fascinating to explore if she has any favorite tales inspired by her homeland, such as Chinese folktales or myths, given the cultural diversity present in the world of table tennis.
