Can you feel it? I can feel it. The unique tension. I recognize it. These signs do not deceive. Here they are again: the Olympic Games. Finally.
Every one of us, we should put ourselves in the shoes of these great athletes, who give everything to the Olympics, their energy, their time and a large part of their lives. Last year we had to postpone the Games. It was necessary, because of the pandemic, for the health of the athletes and the public.
Fact is we still have to pay our full respect and protect against the Corona Virus. And yes, as former athlete and part of the public I can feel this tension also – ‘going for gold’ and the concerns around this constant threat.
The Olympic Games have a special meaning for athletes. We wear the jersey of our national team but we play, we fight in front of the whole world and in a way we play and we fight for all of humanity. This feeling of unity and symbiosis, nothing can match it. There is nothing more beautiful or greater.
Now the Olympic dream can start again. In Tokyo. The excitement is there again. Finally. Seeing all these athletes getting ready again, for this final stretch, I think back to my own Olympic Games. I recognize myself in their efforts and their passion. I see myself in their eyes. I remember how this gold medal changed my life for good.
So I think of them these days. I also think of the boxers among them. I am happy that boxing can have the place it deserves and that the Olympic committee managed to organize these games with excellence.
So, dear boxers, be proud! Give it your all! You can write a beautiful chapter of the history in this noble art! You can brighten the eyes of the fans with your prowess and brighten their hearts! You can build eternal moments for yourselves! Yes, for you, for your loved ones, for tomorrow, turn your dream into a memory! Face your challenge! And keep on punching!
