Dariy Morozov: I immediately accepted invitation to represent Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani gymnast Dariy Morozov, speaking with the correspondent of Vestnik Kavkaza after performing in qualifications at the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Baku, told how he became the national team member.

"I am from Russia, I was born in Moscow. I was invited to perform in January, and I immediately agreed. I packed my things in two days and left for Azerbaijan. I was warmly received," he said.

The gymnast explained that he had long wanted to represent Azerbaijan. "Azerbaijan gives its athletes a huge chance to compete. There is a stronger competition in our country, but here there are so many opportunities, the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation provides everything necessary for gymnasts, for which I am very grateful to AGF," Dariy Morozov said.

"When I arrived here, I realized that I had done the right thing. I am very pleased with the coaching staff and the whole sports complex. The conditions for athletes are perfect here, we have everything necessary, so all we have to do is train to achieve high results," the athlete stressed.

According to him, his performances are watched by his family and friends. "Everyone is supporting me and very excited. But I am calm during my performances, and, by the way, this is the merit of the Azerbaijani psychologists - we have a whole team working with us here, teaching us to psych ourselves up for the performances. Earlier, I was really scared to get on the arena, I had no confidence in myself. But in Azerbaijan I am very calm, although these are the biggest competitions in my life, and for this I am also grateful to AGF," Dariy Morozov concluded.

The 2018 FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup AGF Trophy is been held at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan on March 15-18. A total of 102 gymnasts from 25 countries are taking part in the competitions.

The qualifying competitions are being held on March 15-16. The finals in the men's floor exercise, men's parallel bars, men's ring, as well as finals in women's vault and women's uneven bars will be held on March 17. The finals in the men's vault, men's pommel horse, men's horizontal bar, as well as finals in women's balance beam and women's floor exercise will be held on March 18.