-What are your feelings about the Kazan World Championships?
I have high expectations and I have a very positive mindset. I don't know what level I am at, because last year was very tough. I'm doing well to fight to the maximum. The most important thing is the Games next year.
-What do you notice is better this season?
I regained strength and balance in my right leg. I am gaining confidence. The Open of Spain was a bit strange, but it helped me for this World Championship.
-That right knee...
Yes. I am still injured. My knee was dislocated and I don't have good cartilage anymore. It's difficult to recover it. I was with many doctors and managed to wear a knee brace that adapted to my movements. I managed to regain muscle, although I had a hard time because I had an allergic reaction to the hyaluronic acid treatment they prescribed me. I am that one in a million case. This year I have been able to improve and gain stability.
-Is mentality decisive?
Mentality is everything in the end. If you have a good mindset, you do the workouts better, you recover faster, and your life is more balanced. Even nutrition and rest are also better. But if you're not doing well, you say, go for a walk and clear your mind.
-Tell me about the events you will compete in.
The 200 backstroke is for fun. It's a very difficult event with the level I have internationally right now, but I'm not preparing for it too much either. It's an opportunity to improve it and my time gets better every year. The 200 freestyle is a very fast event but with very painful endurance. This is the most difficult event, but I will take advantage of the opportunity.
-And these 400...
It's the one I control the most and the one I enjoy competing the most. I don't want to make predictions, but I'm going to fight for the top. And then there's the 800. They proposed it to me when Mireia resigned. It's another opportunity. I can see if I can swim it or not. It’s an unknown.
-Who will be the star of these Championships?
Ledecky. She didn't slow down and she swam really well this year.