The limelight will be on Kathrin Meyer and Thommy Brüsewitz, two defining figures in German vaulting, for whom these World Championships mark the conclusion of long and exceptionally successful championship careers. Meyer, who has already triumphed twice in Aachen and who became the first female vaulter ever to secure the World Cup Final title three times in a row, and Brüsewitz, who jointly holds the record for the most victories in the “Prize of Sparkasse” at the CHIO Aachen, together with the national coach, Kai Vorberg, are travelling to Aachen highly-motivated and with great respect for the competition. In this joint interview, they discuss the unique magic of a Championship on home soil, the unparalleled moment of entering the arena in Aachen, and why these World Championships mean far more to them than “merely” their final major competition.

What makes a World Championships year special for you, particularly with it being a home event? What are your expectations?

Kathrin Meyer: Coming to Aachen and being able to compete here is something very special for us every year. This time we will be on-site alongside all the other disciplines, which creates a completely different atmosphere and makes it possible to connect much more with all the other athletes. Furthermore, the conditions at the show grounds in Aachen are simply perfect – so, it is definitely going to be amazing.

Thommy Brüsewitz: I couldn’t agree more. The World Championships on home soil and, what’s more, hosted by my favourite organisers – is something extremely special that we are all eagerly looking forward to. It has been over ten years since any Championships were held in Germany, which is exactly why every vaulter dreams of this. I hope we can present our sport in the best possible light on such a magnificent stage. Vaulting is a sport that can truly captivate people and that is exactly the fascination we want to communicate to the outside world. We hope to achieve this by showing what we are capable of – and just how much we love it.

Thommy, you mentioned the 2015 European Championships. You participated here back then and are familiar with the atmosphere in the indoor arena. What does it feel like in the competition circle?

Thommy Brüsewitz: The atmosphere was incredible in 2015. We were practically carried into the circle; there was a sea of ​​German flags and the backdrop was simply amazing. Marching in there was truly exhilarating. Honestly, nothing in the years that followed ever quite matched it. I hope there will be a large crowd waving German flags for us again this time.

You are both familiar with the feeling of winning in Aachen. What are your goals for the World Championships? What have you set your sights on?

Kathrin Meyer: My goal is clearly to be among the top contenders. But the competition is fierce; it will be a tough battle, but we are well-prepared and will try our very hardest to ensure we can replicate the quality of our performances in training in the competition environment. That especially applies to my freestyle routine. It embodies this year – which is so special to me – and all the emotions that surface when I think about retiring from the sport. It aims to portray my entire journey, as well as the people and horses who have supported me along the way. It is definitely going to be emotional.

Thommy Brüsewitz: Above all, I want to enjoy it. I am so grateful for this entire journey and I want to consciously appreciate everything I have experienced over the last few years. It is a great honour for me to be able to be part of all the fun. I intend to take a moment to pause and cherish every single moment – whether good or bad. Of course, in terms of my sporting performance I will do my very best, although that is something we always aim for.

After long and successful careers, this will be the final Championships for both of you. Does that increase the pressure or does it provide even more motivation to really deliver one last time?

Kathrin Meyer: I would say the pressure is definitely different this year. Whether that is because it is the World Championships, a home event or our final major championships – ultimately, several factors come into play. But I’m definitely looking forward to it and with Gesa and Capi alongside me, it is going to be something very special, either way.

Thommy Brüsewitz: I have tried not to think about it too much, but lately, I have struggled not to (laughs). I do find it hard to occupy myself with the question: “What will I actually do when this is all over?” I am a bit frightened I might fall into a void. It is certainly on my mind, but I am not letting it drive me crazy. To be honest, above all, I am still totally grateful for having the opportunity to experience all of this.

You want to be there LIVE when Kathrin Meyer and Thommy Brüsewitz endeavour to write history at their home World Championships? Then, order your tickets now from the online shop, from the hotline on +49-241-9171111 or directly from the offices of the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein. Be present when medals are won, dreams come true and the Allianz Park evolves into the beating heart of the vaulting world. Find out here, who will be competing alongside them for gold, silver and bronze. The German squad for the home World Championships was confirmed on Monday.