Russian diving champion Grigory Ivanov told that he decided to obtain neutral status because he was pursuing his dream of achieving himself at the international level.
Ivanov became the first Russian diver to receive neutral status – at high-risk world aquatic competitions (for participation in international competitions, except for world championships).
— Grisha, you had a good season, have you decided to move to neutral status to start reaching a new level?
— I’m 23 years old, I think I’m young, and as a professional athlete, I think I haven’t realized myself. I want more, I want to compete, my name to be heard, I want to be remembered.
— Neutral status also constitutes a limitation on staff support. Can you handle it? Doesn’t it bother you to go to the competition almost alone?
– Of course, it’s not easy. Previously, 10-15 people were traveling – staff, massage therapists. But even if we go together and with a coach, I think we can do it. We are adults and have English skills.
— Did the fact that the guys went to the Olympics in neutral status influence your decision to apply?
– Yes. And the fact that the guys also went to the Paralympics. Lera Shabalina – she also trains in the Chelyabinsk pool – told how everything happened there. Why not, why shouldn’t I try it too? – Ivanov told .
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Source : MatchTV
I’m John White and I’m an experienced journalist working in the news industry. My specialty is covering sports news, which I’ve been doing for over 6 years now. During this time, I have worked as an author with Athletistic, a popular online news website focusing on sports topics.
