Interview With Maliha Tressel

How old were you when you started gymnastics, and what originally drew you to the sport?

I was two years old when I started gymnastics. I have always been drawn to gymnastics because of the feeling of accomplishment you get after achieving something you have worked so hard for!

What was your favorite meet, your favorite and least favorite events, and the hardest/easiest skill you ever trained?

My favorite meet was U.S Championships 2024 because it was the first time I made U.S National Team and that had been my biggest goal! My favorite event is floor. I love getting to show off both my power and artistry. The hardest skill I have ever trained is a double double on floor.

Gymnastics is incredibly mental. What was your hardest struggle during your time as a gymnast? How did you deal with nerves, pressure, and getting in your head or temporarily "losing" a skill?

My hardest struggle in the past has been confidence. I knew what I was capable of but when it was time to compete it was hard for me to trust myself and show what I knew I could do. I have worked so hard on this for the past few years. I have learned to trust myself and know what I have is enough. When it is time to compete it is the same as any other day. No single event, skill, or meet is make-or-break. You are enough, just as you are!

What was your biggest accomplishment in the sport, and did you ever want to do college gymnastics?

My biggest accomplishments have been making US National Team and most recently, committing to Auburn University on a full-ride scholarship to continue my academic and athletic career. I can’t wait to compete in college for such an incredible program with such great coaches and teammates!

How did you cope when your time as a gymnast ended, and did you transition into coaching or are you currently still competing?

I am still currently competing!

Who was your gymnastics role model, and what advice would you give to someone starting the sport for the first time?

I have had many role models over the years. I have been lucky enough to train with some of the best gymnasts in the world and I have learned something from all of them.

What two goals you want to achieve in the sport of gymnastics?

I have lots of goals for my future in college gymnastics, but in the rest of my time as a DP gymnast I would like to qualify to Nastia Cup and score a 39.00 all around.