Tell us a little more about your injury... how did you get through the pain of suffering a fractured ankle then bounce back to become world champion?
It was a difficult time, especially as I spent almost a year recovering, and I was afraid that I might not ever be able to return to my level. But I was patient and remained optimistic throughout 2019; that, together with a lot of strength, helped to get me back on the podium once again.
Barshim's dream to triumph at 2020 Tokyo
Following the achievements of this year... what goals have you set for 2020?
A lot of important events will be coming up next season, so I will have a lot of challenges to overcome along the way. That's something I enjoy and it motivates me because I am used to dealing with pressure in the major competitions. I'll be taking part in a few events but the biggest one will be the Olympic Games in Tokyo, where I would love to win a gold medal after picking up the bronze and silver (in the last two Games in London and Rio). The other challenge I've set myself is to beat the world record (2.45 metres, held by Javier Sotomayor, who was also recognised by AS) after jumping 2.37 at the World Championships in Doha.
Do you feel under pressure from the expectations of your fans to win gold in Tokyo?
Pressure is something which all sportsmen and women have to live with when you are trying to succeed on a world level, and so it's something that I have to get used to so that I can handle that kind of tension. It's something I have managed to do better recently. And the pressure to win a medal will never be greater than what I felt when I suffered an injury which could have ended my career.
What role has the Aspire Academy in Qatar had on your career?
I consider the Aspire Academy to be my second home. And since I started my career there, I have felt that all of the instructors there really want to improve all of the athletes and give them the skills they need. The atmosphere is all geared towards sport, and that helps any athlete who wants to triumph, and that is what set me on the path to the successes I have enjoyed.
What advice would you give young sportsmen and women who are just starting out?
I would encourage them to make as much effort as they can and that a lot of sacrifice is required to be among the best, and also that they must make the most of the positive circumstances they will encounter along the way to reach their goal. That is what I was doing at Aspire, and all of the athletes who are working at the academy will find that too.
Barshim: humility and dedication
How does it feel to be a sports superstar?
To be honest with you, I don't think about that. For me, as a sportsman, I am not looking for popularity, only to continue reaching my goals and enjoying success with my team. I hope that my coaches and followers have faith in me and it makes me feel happy when they do. I always try to remain humble and try to improve aspects of my technique and career.
And finally, do you have any words for AS readers?
I would like to thank Diario AS for this interview and for choosing me as the best Arab sportsperson of 2019. I would also like to dedicate to all of the readers, my hopes and ambition to record the highest jump in history (2.45 metres).