Interview: Tokyo 2021 - Matthias Casse

In anticipation of Tokyo 2021, we interviewed our qualified athletes before they pack their bags! This week in the spotlight: Matthias Casse.

• Matthias Casse / 19-02-1997 / Mortsel, Belgium / Judo

"I am definitely on track to be in top shape in Tokyo. These last months are very important."

"Wrestling or rugby appeal to me greatly."

"I started judo at the age of 6."

"The preparation is obviously still in full swing. So far it has gone pretty well without any major setbacks. Of course, there are always small difficulties or injuries for which a solution must be found, especially during Covid-19. I'm happy with where I'm now and I'm fully convinced that I will be ready in Tokyo."

"There are several very nice moments in my career. My European title in 2019, becoming vice-world champion in the same venue as Tokyo 2021, and winning the World Judo Masters as the first Belgian ever. These are moments where I often think about."

"For us as judokas, it is very important we can fight with many different people and that's exactly what has been very difficult in the past period. Because of this, we've had to look for alternative solutions and it has taken a lot of time and effort to get back into the right rhythm.

"No idea yet! With the strict protocols in Tokyo, I don't expect us to be there very early."

"I fight on July 27.

"The goal is a medal, I wouldn’t even depart for less."

"Two of my brothers have already won medals at the European and World Championships and at the World Games in acrobatic gymnastics. This is unfortunately still missing this year in Tokyo. I know how hard they train to get to the top and I think they certainly deserve their sport to be added.

"Tadahiro Nomura is so far the only judoka to have ever won 3 gold medals at the Olympics, an incredible achievement.

"I was invited to talk about the 6DreamsToTokyo campaign, I first tried the products back then and have been using them every day since"

"The product I have enjoyed the most is the Recovery Shake."

"Especially in tough training weeks, I really need the Recovery Shake to recuperate enough for the next training."

"I think I rarely made rookie mistakes because I have worked with professional guidance from a young age and I was never afraid to ask for extra help."

"I think I would go for the Isotonic Sports Drink because I really do need it throughout every race day."