Funk wins home World Cup in Kayak Cross

Ricarda Funk secured another victory at the Slalom Canoe World Cup in Augsburg, Germany, triumphing in the Kayak Cross Individual event. The 34-year-old Olympic champion narrowly defeated Tereza Kneblova of the Czech Republic by just two hundredths of a second in the Augsburger Eiskanal.

This win adds to Funk's impressive recent form. She had already claimed victory in her specialty, Kayak, on Saturday. The previous week, she also won the Cross Individual race in Prague, demonstrating consistent dominance across disciplines.

“

I'm totally exhausted, but I'm happy that it worked out.

"I'm totally exhausted, but I'm happy it worked out," said Funk, who represents KSV Bad Kreuznach. Her strong performances have put her in excellent shape for the upcoming World Championships in Oklahoma City, scheduled from July 20-25.

Funk expressed confidence in her preparation, stating, "First and foremost, I know I can compete. That gives you the confirmation that the hard work in the winter has paid off. And it gives you a certain amount of self-confidence." Her recent wins, including defeating three-time Olympic champion Jessica Fox of Australia in the Kayak event, underscore her readiness for the global competition.

“

First and foremost, I know I can compete. That gives you the confirmation that the hard work in the winter has paid off. And it gives you a certain amount of self-confidence.