Kaylia Nemour will sign her book “The Shadow of Gold” (Editions Anep) at the Anep stand during Sila 2026 on Friday, November 6, from 10 AM to 11 AM.
Co-authored with Frédéric Brindille, this book recounts her journey, challenges, and rapid rise. The Algerian Olympic champion gave an interview to TSA.
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She discusses her book, her coach Nadia Massé, her ambitions, the two medals she won at the Rotterdam 2026 World Championships, her goals for the 2028 Olympics, her favorite Algerian dish, and her favorite spots in Algiers…
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How does it feel to be back in Algeria?
Kaylia Nemour: I am really happy to be in Algeria. I have the chance to come quite frequently depending on my training schedule. It’s always a pleasure to return here and meet very warm people. The more I come, the more I want to come back.
You will sign your book on Friday, November 6, at the Algiers International Book Fair (Sila 2026). What will readers discover that is new about you?
Kaylia Nemour: I simply share my story from my beginnings in gymnastics: how I started young and the journey I took to the 2025 World Championships.
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There are chapters about a very difficult period in my life, but also memorable moments from my career. By reading this book, people will dive into my thoughts because I really share what I feel. They will be able to truly put themselves in my shoes. My book is accessible, and I hope readers will appreciate my story.
You won two gold medals two weeks ago at the Rotterdam World Championships. That’s remarkable. Did you expect such success?
Kaylia Nemour: To be honest, I didn’t necessarily expect such a result. My goal was to reach the final and win a medal on the beam if I executed my routine well, but on the first day, I didn’t manage to get a medal in the all-around due to a mistake.
I managed to refocus for the uneven bars and won gold. I was very happy, and winning a gold medal on the beam is simply exceptional!
Despite the disappointment in the all-around final, you bounced back to secure two gold medals on the beam and uneven bars. How did you manage to recover?
Kaylia Nemour: I was well surrounded because I must admit I was a bit demoralized. I had worked for a year for this all-around competition, and it had just slipped away from me.
It was really difficult, but I tried to put that disappointment aside because I had very important finals on the beam and uneven bars. I focused on the bars first and then the next day on the beam, and the results followed. That lifted my spirits.
What do you think about before entering the final?
Kaylia Nemour: I simply concentrate on what I practice every day in training.
What are your goals for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics?
Kaylia Nemour: The Olympics represent the ultimate competition. Winning two gold medals at the Rotterdam World Championships two weeks ago gives me confidence for what’s to come.
However, the Olympics are just a year and a half away. Although these two medals reflect the work I’ve put in, they do not guarantee performance at the Olympics.
Of course, it boosts my confidence, but there is still a lot of work to do. Until then, there are the World Championships in 2027 and World Cup events before the 2028 Olympics.
Are you aiming for three gold medals at the 2028 Olympics?
Kaylia Nemour: It’s premature to comment on the goals, but I will continue to work hard for the all-around and of course for the uneven bars and beam.
What are the secrets to your success, Kaylia Nemour?
Kaylia Nemour: Since my childhood, I have always maintained a good lifestyle: I go to bed early, stay active even outside of gymnastics, and pay attention to my diet. It’s a combination that allows for effective training!
After winning the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, I experienced a dip in morale and motivation, but Nadia Massé brought me a new perspective on gymnastics.
Over time, I developed new goals, including the all-around. I believe that today, I am stronger than before. Kaylia has evolved as a young woman and as an athlete.
What influence has your new coach Nadia Massé had on you?
Kaylia Nemour: A different approach to gymnastics. I understand better why I come and why I do this exercise.
Moreover, on a personal level, it’s very different. When we started working together, she taught me, for example, to have confidence in myself. For me, that’s a key, something essential for achieving good performances.
Do you feel more fulfilled and happy today?
Kaylia Nemour: It’s obvious! In fact, everyone tells me this, whether at training or in my daily life. I remain focused. The work is demanding, but I feel free. I stay true to myself.
By winning the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, you sparked interest in gymnastics in Algeria. What advice would you give to young gymnasts?
Kaylia Nemour: Dream big! Practice gymnastics with passion, with your heart, set goals, and above all, don’t be afraid to take the plunge.
To reach a high level right now in Algeria, I think there is a lack of training hours because there are truly promising talents, young gymnasts who could go very far. A high-level gymnast should train between 25 and 30 hours a week.
You frequently visit Algeria. What are your favorite places?
Kaylia Nemour: When I come to Algeria, I mainly go to Algiers. I have been to Oran twice.
My stays are short and very busy due to multiple appointments, but I really enjoy the Jardin d'Essai and the Grande-Poste.
As a high-level athlete, what Algerian dish do you allow yourself to enjoy without restriction?
Kaylia Nemour: I don’t consume anything without moderation, but I love rechta!
And regarding sweets, what Algerian pastries do you prefer?
Kaylia Nemour: I don’t like things that are too sweet. I enjoy dark chocolate, less sweet cakes, but I’m not a fan of oriental pastries that are too sweet for my taste.
