1992 Olympic champion Javier Sotomayor, whose 2.45m excessive bounce document nonetheless stands, stated there isn’t a fastened system to interrupt information. File
| Picture Credit score: The Hindu
World document holder excessive jumper Javier Sotomayor on Saturday (November 22, 2025) stated that self-discipline and mindset, not services alone, resolve the success of an athlete, and urged the Indian children to do the identical.
The Cuban legend stated India is at present on the proper stage to supply world-class athletes however added that the drive has to come back from inside.
The 1992 Olympic champion, whose 2.45m excessive bounce document nonetheless stands, stated there isn’t a fastened system to interrupt information. He insisted that point is ripe for India to make a breakthrough in athletics.
“I frankly don’t have the reply to how somebody can break the document, but when in any respect a document ought to be damaged, it ought to be now,” Sotomayor stated in an interplay with PTI Movies on the sidelines of the Ekamra Sports activities Literature Competition in New Delhi.
“All of the situations are best. There may be expertise now, there may be help now. All you want is self-discipline. Upon getting the self-discipline, you’ll be able to have the consequence,” he stated.
He highlighted self-discipline and psychological energy as the 2 non-negotiables for any athlete looking for world-class consistency.
“It is determined by the particular person; it modifications from individual to individual. The very first thing is the mentality after which all of the help is available in. The construction, the coaching — all that is available in later,” Sotomayor stated.
“It actually is determined by the athlete and the way they need to excel.”
The 58-year-old reminded that elite efficiency is constructed over years of dedication, and exterior motivation can solely spark, not maintain, a profession.
“Athletes aren’t made in a day, or with a couple of phrases of mine. It takes them years,” he stated.
“I can simply give them a slight push or good recommendation, however after that it’s their very own journey. A phrase of encouragement helps. There have been individuals who inspired me, so I can even do the identical and attempt to give them a push and kind of encourage them.” Speaking in regards to the occasion, he stated, “It’s the first time I’m taking part in a literature sports activities pageant, and it’s an honour to be invited to New Delhi.
“I wish to share my expertise as an athlete and what it continues to imply for us,” he added.
Revealed – November 23, 2025 03:37 am IST
