Upwards Trajectory

In the last couple of seasons Alexia Kiefer Quintana (Duotone Windsurfing) has developed into a genuine world title contender after going on quite a remarkable run. Prior to 2024, the 20-year-old had never earned a podium on the World Tour, but since last season she has finished in the top three at all of the seven events she has competed at as she continues her rise through the sport. As a young gun, Kiefer Quintana stood out and she has now firmly arrived on the world stage - chasing a maiden world title with two events to go after her latest podium in Tenerife. As the current world No.2 continues to enjoy another fantastic year, we managed to catch up with Alexia for an interview:

Hi Alexia, in 2022 and 2023 your best finish was a sixth place, but then last year you made a huge step forwards finishing on the podium at every event and also finishing on the overall podium - what do you think the big things were for you to make such a big step forward?

“Simply keep training, stay focused, and never give up at any moment. I think that has helped me make that big step forward and finish on the podium at every competition since last year.”

And now this season, you’re enjoying another great year currently ranked second overall and have now podiumed for the last seven events in a row - what’s the secret to your consistency and how proud are you of that record?

"This year has been incredible for me. Up until Tenerife I was in first place in the rankings, tied with Sarah-Quita [Offringa], and that was something that made me feel amazing. Ever since I started windsurfing that had been my goal, and finally being there was incredible. Right now I’m in second place with two events left, and I’m really looking forward to competing and giving it my all to try to move up one more spot and become world champion ;).”

In Tenerife you came pretty close to winning the single elimination - were you disappointed at all at not claiming the win or still very happy to take second place, which is obviously another great result…

“To be honest, I was a little disappointed to finish second in the single elimination. It’s an amazing result, but I know I could have done much better. I came out of the water feeling a bit sad because I knew it hadn’t been my best heat. I couldn’t land any backloops because of how nervous I was, even though it’s my favourite move. But well, it’s all part of the process, so I’ll take it as a lesson and try to stay calmer next time I’m in a similar situation.”

You class Tenerife as one of your favourite locations - what is it about Tenerife you love so much?
 
"Without a doubt, Tenerife is my favourite place in the world. I love the sailing conditions, the incredible waves for surfing, and the wind, which isn’t as extremely strong as in Pozo. I love the atmosphere during the competition, I love El Médano itself, and the island in general because it has so many beautiful places. I’m very sure that when I’m older I’m going to live there.”

You are Sarah-Quita Offringa’s closest challenger with two events to go - how are you feeling ahead of the next couple of events in Sylt and Maui?
 
“I’m nervous about the competitions that are still to come, especially Sylt, because it’s a place where you never know what you’re going to get since the conditions are different every year. But at the same time, I’m excited to go and give it my all."

You’ve been carrying a shoulder injury all summer… is that better now or still ongoing?

“The truth is I’ve been dealing with this shoulder injury for quite a long time because it kept coming and going. I only felt pain from time to time, but whenever I did it was really intense. I had already been to several physiotherapists, but none of them had helped me until now. During the competition in Tenerife I talked to Blanca Alabau, who turned out to have the same problem as me, and she recommended a physio in Tenerife who is helping me a lot. So I hope it to be better in a few months.”

Besides windsurfing what other sports and hobbies do you enjoy?
 
“I love doing all kinds of watersports, whether it’s surfing, paddleboarding, or snorkelling… I’m happiest when I’m near the sea.”

Thank you!!”

Thanks, Alexia. Best of luck for the rest of the season.