If you’re preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, you might come across a cue card like “Describe a Sportsperson That You Admire.” Sounds simple enough, right? But how do you make it engaging and personal? Let’s break it down with some examples that feel like we’re just chatting over a cup of tea. No robotic stuff here—just real, relatable stories.

The IELTS Speaking Test: Keep It Real

First off, the IELTS Speaking test is essentially a conversation. In Part 2, you’ll get a cue card, a minute to prepare, and then 2 minutes to speak. The key is to keep your response personal and vivid. Think of it as sharing a memory with a friend. Let’s dive into how you can describe a family photograph in a way that feels authentic and captivating.

Describe a Sportsperson That You Admire

·         What You Need to Describe?

·         Who the person is?

·         What sport does he or she do?

·         When did you first hear about this person?

·         Why do you admire him or her?

·         Who the person is?

I greatly admire Virat Kohli, one of the most renowned cricketers in the world and a true icon of Indian sport. Kohli has carved out a legacy in the world of cricket that is unmatched by many.

What sport does he or she do? 
He plays as a top-order batsman and has represented India in all three formats of the game: Test, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20s (T20s). Kohli is also known for his time as the captain of the Indian national team, where his leadership was integral to many of India's triumphs, including their series victories against top-tier teams like Australia and England.

What sport does he or she do?
I first heard about Kohli in 2008 when he was part of the Indian team in Sri Lanka. At the time, he was known for his aggressive batting, but it was his performance in subsequent years, especially during the 2011 World Cup, that truly caught my attention. Since then, I've closely followed his career, witnessing his rise from a promising young cricketer to one of the greatest players of all time.

What sport does he or she do?
What make Virat Kohli stand out is not just his extraordinary technical skills or his remarkable consistency, but also his mental strength and determination. His ability to perform under pressure, particularly in high-stakes situations, has earned him a reputation as a "chase master" in ODIs. His fitness regime and dedication to maintaining peak physical condition are also truly inspiring, setting new standards for professionalism in the sport. Kohli’s commitment to evolving as a player, whether through developing his technique, working on his fitness, or adapting his game to different conditions, showcases his relentless drive to improve.

In addition to his sporting achievements, I also admire his contributions to society. Kohli is involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, focusing on causes such as child welfare and education. His foundation, the Virat Kohli Foundation, works towards empowering underprivileged children and supporting various charitable causes, showing that he uses his fame for the greater good.

Finally, his humility and sportsmanship in the face of success are qualities that make him a true role model. Kohli's attitude both on and off the field has earned him respect from fans and fellow players alike. His legacy is not only about the runs he has scored or the records he has broken but about the passion, discipline, and integrity he brings to the game of cricket.

Follow Ups

Why do people admire sports personalities?
People admire sports personalities for their exceptional talent, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges. These figures often exemplify perseverance, discipline, and mental fortitude, inspiring others to push their limits and strive for success. Athletes’ remarkable skill and consistency captivate audiences, making them symbols of excellence. Additionally, many sports figures serve as role models, demonstrating humility, work ethic, and leadership. Their philanthropic efforts further enhance admiration, as they use their influence to give back to society. Moreover, athletes’ achievements foster national pride and unity, creating a deep emotional connection with fans, transcending the realm of sport itself.

What qualities make someone a good sportsperson?
A good sportsperson possesses several essential qualities that contribute to both their athletic success and admirable character. Discipline ensures consistent training and improvement, while resilience enables recovery from setbacks. Teamwork fosters collaboration, even in individual sports, and sportsmanship promotes respect for opponents and fair play. Mental strength allows athletes to perform under pressure, and humility ensures they remain grounded despite success. Lastly, a deep passion for the sport drives continuous growth and dedication. Together, these attributes create a well-rounded individual who excels in their field while upholding values of respect, perseverance, and integrity.

How important is physical fitness in becoming a successful sportsperson?
Physical fitness is crucial in becoming a successful sportsperson, as it directly influences performance, endurance, and overall effectiveness in any sport. Elite athletes rely on high levels of fitness to maintain peak performance, resist fatigue, and recover from intense physical demands. A strong foundation of strength, agility, stamina, and flexibility allows athletes to perform complex movements efficiently and reduces the risk of injuries. Additionally, fitness enhances mental clarity, as a healthy body often leads to a sharper, more focused mind. Ultimately, physical fitness is not only vital for competing at the highest level but also for long-term success and career longevity.

What role do coaches and mentors play in the success of a sportsperson?
Coaches and mentors play an integral role in the success of a sportsperson, guiding them both technically and emotionally throughout their careers. Coaches provide expertise, designing training regimens tailored to an athlete’s strengths and weaknesses, and helping them improve specific skills. They offer strategic insights, preparing athletes for competition by analyzing opponents and developing effective game plans. Mentors, on the other hand, provide emotional support and guidance, helping athletes navigate challenges, handle pressure, and maintain focus. They instil values such as discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship, shaping not only the athlete’s abilities but also their character. Together, coaches and mentors are crucial for maximizing an athlete’s potential and ensuring long-term success.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

Describe an invention that is useful in daily life

Describe a crowded place you have been to

Describe a product you bought, but returned

Describe a successful businessperson you know

Describe a successful business person you admire

Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic