New York, July 24, 1998

Alina Kabayeva, the 15 year old pupil of Irina Viner, became the all-around winner at the Goodwill Games.

-- Alina, congratulations on receiving the gold. How do you feel?

Thank you for the congratulations. I am, of course, very happy. Although, I am still in shock.

-- Was your performance today the best in your career?

No. I performed better at the European Championships in Portugal.

-- Not so long ago you won the gold at the World Junior Games. Did you expect to become a winner again so soon?

I did not think so. I am always not confident in myself at the beginning.

-- But you were in the lead right after the first rotation. Did you still have doubts?

Yes. Honestly, I did not even know my scores. I try not to look at them.

-- How are you going to spend your prize money?

I will see. I can always find a way to spend money.

-- What is your favorite apparatus?

Ribbon.

-- Why?

Because I like to waltz with it. It is so feminine.

-- And what is your least favorite?

I do not have one yet.

-- Are you already thinking about the Olympics?

More likely about the 1999 World Championships. I hope to perform well there and catch the fancy of the audience.

And what about the judges?

Of them too!

-- Is it your first time in the U.S.?

No, it is my fourth time. It is my first time in New York, though.

-- So, do you like it?

Yes, but I liked it in Japan better.

-- What especially?

Everything!

-- Maybe the traditional cuisine?

Only the rice, maybe. I actually like the Korean cuisine, the dish called "kukse." Did you know, I have adopted some Japanese traditions. For example, I like to wear kimono.

-- Do you like Japanese guys? Or are the American ones cuter?

To me, the Russian guys are the cutest. They are so strong and masculine.

-- Do you have a boyfriend?

No, just friends. I am only 15, you know. I am not thinking about a future relationship yet.

-- What else do you like besides performing with ribbon?

Disco music. And I simply love to rollerblade in Novogorsk where we have our training camp.

-- Alina, your mom is a basketball player and your dad is a soccer player. How do you like their sports?

I like both of them. I cheer for Spartak-Moscow [soccer club] and the NBA.

-- Who would you distinguish from the National Basketball Association?

Michael Jordan.

-- Have you met him?

No, but I would really like to!