Epke Zonderland (NED) and Fabian Hambuechen (GER)

What makes these two men can’t-miss competitors in this event are their huge rivalry, stylized performances, and unforgettable routines. Epke Zonderland has an especially jaw-dropping routine that consists of world-class releases and connections that leave spectators in awe. He currently has the highest D score in the world. Last year, he performed a huge 7.7 difficulty routine while Fabian Hambuechen performed a solid 7.4 difficulty routine. While Hambuechen tends to focus on perfection and clean execution, Zonderland is sure to perform his most challenging routine. 
 

Zonderland and Hambuechen, only one year apart in age, are quite familiar rivals on this event. Their first encounter was in 2004 and since then, they have always found their way into many high bar finals together. Hambuechen describes that he feels like they compete together rather than against each other. In the training halls at big championships they always train together and when it comes to competition, they genuinely want each other to do well and will noticeably cheer and encourage one another. 
 

The pair have stated their aim as European gymnasts is to beat the Asians and finish 1-2 on the podium. In 2010, they placed second and third behind Zhang Chenglong of China, and in 2011 they finished out of the medals behind China and Japan. Then in 2012, the pair took gold and silver in front of Zou Kai of China at the London Games. Last year, they again became the top two European gymnasts on this event and placed first and second ahead of Kohei Uchimura from Japan.
 

King Kohei will also be one to look out for as well as Sam Mikulak from USA. They both perform a 7.0 difficulty routine and are extremely clean gymnasts. Both Uchimura and Mikulak will be looking to make statements in the all-around and have the potential to qualify to the high bar final. Also, not to be forgotten is Zou Kai, from China who won high bar at the Asian Games earlier this month and performed a 7.2 difficulty routine and USA’s John Orozco, who won the P&G Championships on this event in August with a 6.9 starting value.

With so many high contenders for the title, it’s guaranteed to be one of the most thrilling and exciting event finals at the World Championships. Can Zonderland and Hambuechen once again top the podium ahead of the Chinese and Japanese?


Check out last years exciting World Championships high bar final below.

2014 World Championships Nominative List Announced