Italian speed skater Lollobrigida celebrated her 35th birthday by becoming the country’s first female Olympic champion, securing a memorable victory at the home Games.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch sports news outlet, reports on Lollobrigida’s significant achievement.
After the last competitors, Joy Beune and Isabelle Weidemann, finished their races, Lollobrigida’s moment arrived. She embraced her coach, ran across the center ice carrying the Italian flag, and waved to her family in the stands. The victory marked a dream come true for her, especially with her son Tommaso, husband, and family present to witness the occasion. She described the day as the best of her life and dedicated her title to everyone who believed in her, as well as to those who doubted her, crediting them with giving her the strength to prove herself.
Lollobrigida’s triumph came despite a challenging season. After winning the world title in the 5,000 meters last year in Hamar, expectations were high for her performance at the Olympics in Italy. However, she struggled in the months leading up to the Games due to a viral infection, which severely affected her results. There were moments when she considered quitting, unwilling to perform poorly on home ice. Reflecting on her perseverance, she expressed relief and pride in having continued to compete.
