Romania: why Popovici is a model swimmer
Romanian swimmer David Popovici won gold in the 100 and 200-metre freestyle at the World Swimming Championships in Singapore. He had previously spoken openly about the psychological pressure of competing and admitted that at one point he had looked for tickets to fly home before the competition - out of fear of success. The national press hails him as a role model: as an athlete, an individual and as a citizen.
Vulnerable like you and me
His sensitive handling of his own insecurities makes the exceptional athlete particularly popular in Romania, republica.ro is certain:
“When David admitted at the World Swimming Championships that he'd thought about retiring, he said it wasn't the fear of failure that scared him, but on the contrary the fear of success. ... Because David already knows something that many people never learn in a lifetime: that we're vulnerable in the face of both obstacles and moments of happiness. And that's probably why we love David so much. Because he teaches us to understand what we can be, but above all he teaches us to remember what we are.”
On a par with the best
Sports newspaper Gazeta Sporturilor comments proudly:
“David's triumph in Singapore caused a sensation around the world. Swimming is one of the most widespread and practised sports on the planet, it is followed everywhere with great interest. Our compatriot has been portrayed as an aquatic version of athletes such as Usain Bolt and Carl Lewis. His achievements in the pool and his successes outside the water are equally impressive. Although he's not yet 21, David Popovici has already secured his place in the Hall of Fame.”
No need to leave to be successful
In an article for Adevărul, national-liberal MEP Gheorghe Falcă emphasises the signal effect Popovici's successes could have for Romania:
“David has stayed here in the country. He grew up here and, above all, was educated here. When he beat American, Chinese and other European swimmers one after the other, he did it from here. ... In my opinion, this difference is the key lesson. ... With ambition, character and hard work you can succeed in our country. In a Romania that is networked with Europe, people no longer have to emigrate to realise their potential. They can stay and shine and inspire and motivate us all - no matter their age.”