Alja Ponikvar begins World Championships in Frankfurt

Slovenian rhythmic gymnast Alja Ponikvar has successfully begun her campaign at the World Championships in Frankfurt. The 17-year-old, who is returning to competition following a back injury that forced her to miss the European Championships, performed her initial routines with clubs and ribbon without major errors.

Following the first day of qualifications, Ponikvar sits in 33rd place. The competition is currently led by Olympic champion Darja Varfolomeev, who holds a narrow lead over Italy's Sofia Raffaeli.

Ponikvar's coach, Lena Salaujova, expressed pride in her athlete's ability to return to form so quickly. Ponikvar is scheduled to compete with the hoop and ball on Thursday.