The topic “describe a sportsperson you admire” is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to structure a coherent response while discussing personal interests and opinions.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire is a versatile topic that can be approached from various angles, making it an excellent opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their English language skills. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about sports and athletes. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you play any sports?
- What’s your favorite sport to watch?
- Do you have a favorite athlete?
Let’s focus on question 3:
Examiner: Do you have a favorite athlete?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I do. My favorite athlete is Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s a famous football player from Portugal. I admire him because he’s very skilled and works hard to stay in top form.
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely. I’ve always been captivated by Serena Williams, the American tennis legend. Her unparalleled skill on the court, combined with her unwavering determination and the way she’s shattered barriers in the sport, make her an incredibly inspiring figure to me. What I find particularly admirable is how she’s used her platform to advocate for social issues, demonstrating that athletes can be powerful voices for change beyond their sporting achievements.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a sportsperson you admire
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What sport they play
- What achievements they have
- And explain why you admire them
IELTS Speaking Cue Card Example
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
The sportsperson I admire is Lionel Messi. He’s a professional football player from Argentina. Messi plays as a forward and is known for his incredible dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability. He has won many awards, including several Ballon d’Or trophies, which are given to the best footballer each year. I admire Messi because he’s very talented and has worked hard to become one of the best players in the world. Despite his fame, he seems humble and dedicated to his team.
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
The sportsperson I’d like to talk about is Simone Biles, the phenomenal American gymnast. Biles is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most dominant gymnasts of all time, competing primarily in artistic gymnastics.
Her list of achievements is nothing short of extraordinary. Biles has won a combined total of 32 Olympic and World Championship medals, making her the most decorated American gymnast in history. She’s renowned for her groundbreaking performances, often executing moves so difficult that they’ve been named after her.
What I find particularly admirable about Biles goes beyond her athletic prowess. She’s demonstrated remarkable resilience and courage in the face of personal challenges. During the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Biles made the brave decision to withdraw from several events to prioritize her mental health, sparking a global conversation about the pressures faced by elite athletes.
I admire Biles not just for her unparalleled skill and achievements, but also for her role as a trailblazer in sports. She’s been a vocal advocate for athlete welfare and has used her platform to address important issues such as sexual abuse in gymnastics. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, combined with her honesty about her struggles, makes her a truly inspirational figure who’s redefined what it means to be a champion both on and off the mat.
Examiner’s follow-up questions:
- Do you think this sportsperson has influenced young people?
- How do you think athletes can be good role models?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
Undoubtedly, Simone Biles has had a profound influence on young people, particularly aspiring gymnasts. Her unparalleled success in the sport has inspired countless children to take up gymnastics, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the discipline. However, I believe her impact extends far beyond just her athletic achievements.
Biles has become a powerful role model for young people in several ways. Firstly, her openness about her mental health struggles has normalized conversations around this crucial topic, encouraging young athletes to prioritize their well-being. This has been instrumental in shifting the narrative around mental health in sports.
Moreover, as a woman of color in a sport that has historically lacked diversity, Biles has become a beacon of representation. Her success has shown young people from underrepresented backgrounds that they too can excel at the highest levels of sport, breaking down perceived barriers.
Lastly, Biles’ advocacy work, particularly in speaking out against abuse in gymnastics, has demonstrated to young people the importance of using one’s voice to effect change. This has empowered many to stand up for themselves and others, fostering a new generation of socially conscious athletes.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to sports and athletes. Here are some possible questions:
- How do professional athletes contribute to society?
- What are the potential drawbacks of being a famous athlete?
- Do you think athletes are overpaid? Why or why not?
Let’s focus on question 1:
Examiner: How do professional athletes contribute to society?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
Professional athletes contribute to society in several ways. They entertain people through their performances in sports events. They also inspire young people to be active and pursue their dreams. Some athletes use their fame to support charities and raise awareness for important causes. Additionally, successful athletes can bring pride to their countries or communities.
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
Professional athletes make multifaceted contributions to society that extend far beyond the realm of sports. Primarily, they serve as sources of inspiration and motivation, particularly for young people. Their dedication, perseverance, and achievements can ignite a passion for physical activity and personal growth in others, promoting healthier lifestyles and goal-oriented mindsets.
Moreover, many athletes leverage their public platform to advocate for social causes. We’ve seen numerous examples of athletes spearheading movements for social justice, environmental awareness, and health initiatives. This activism can catalyze significant societal changes and bring attention to important issues that might otherwise be overlooked.
From an economic perspective, professional athletes contribute substantially to local and national economies. Major sporting events generate revenue for host cities, create jobs, and can boost tourism. The sports industry as a whole is a significant economic driver in many countries.
Furthermore, athletes often engage in philanthropic endeavors, establishing foundations or supporting existing charities. These efforts can have tangible impacts on communities, from funding educational programs to improving healthcare access in underserved areas.
Lastly, on an international level, athletes can serve as cultural ambassadors, fostering understanding and connection between different nations and peoples. International sporting events like the Olympics exemplify how athletes can transcend political boundaries and promote a sense of global unity.
In essence, while the primary role of professional athletes is to excel in their respective sports, their influence and contributions to society are far-reaching and multidimensional, making them important figures beyond the sporting arena.
Professional Athletes' Contribution to Society
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response when describing a sportsperson you admire:
Phenomenal (adjective) – /fəˈnɒmɪnl/: exceptional or extraordinary
Example: “Usain Bolt’s speed on the track was simply phenomenal.”Trailblazer (noun) – /ˈtreɪlbleɪzə(r)/: a person who is the first to do something; an innovator
Example: “Serena Williams has been a trailblazer for women in tennis.”Resilience (noun) – /rɪˈzɪliəns/: the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties
Example: “The athlete’s resilience in the face of injuries was admirable.”Groundbreaking (adjective) – /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/: innovative; pioneering
Example: “Her groundbreaking technique revolutionized the sport.”To shatter barriers (phrase) – to break through limitations or obstacles
Example: “Muhammad Ali shattered barriers both in and out of the boxing ring.”Unwavering commitment (phrase) – steady, persistent dedication
Example: “His unwavering commitment to training set him apart from his peers.”To advocate for (phrasal verb) – /ˈædvəkeɪt fɔː(r)/: to publicly support or recommend a particular cause
Example: “Many athletes advocate for social justice issues.”Exemplify (verb) – /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/: to be a perfect example of
Example: “Her sportsmanship exemplifies the true spirit of the game.”
Describe a sportsperson or athlete you admire effectively by incorporating these terms and phrases into your responses. Remember to use them naturally and in context to showcase your language proficiency.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing a sportsperson you admire:
Prepare diverse examples: While having a go-to athlete is useful, be ready to discuss various sportspeople across different disciplines. This demonstrates a broad knowledge base and flexibility in your language use.
Focus on specific details: Instead of general statements, provide concrete examples of the athlete’s achievements, personality traits, or impactful moments. This adds depth and authenticity to your response.
Practice coherent structuring: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2. Use linking words to connect ideas smoothly and ensure your response flows naturally.
Expand beyond sports: While describing the athlete’s sporting prowess is important, discuss their impact outside of sports as well. This could include their charitable work, influence on society, or personal challenges they’ve overcome.
Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses when appropriate. For example, discuss the athlete’s past achievements, current status, and potential future impact.
Engage with the examiner: In Part 3, don’t just answer the questions – engage in a genuine discussion. Express your opinions clearly and be prepared to explain your reasoning.
Work on pronunciation and fluency: Practice speaking about sports and athletes regularly to improve your comfort with the topic. Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of athlete names and sports terminology.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.
Describe a famous athlete you know confidently by following these tips and incorporating the vocabulary and structures discussed in this guide. With practice and preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this common IELTS Speaking topic.
IELTS Speaking Tips Infographic
By mastering these strategies and continuously expanding your vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss not only sportspeople you admire but also a wide range of topics in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice is key to improving your speaking skills, so take every opportunity to discuss sports and athletes in English. Whether you’re describing your favorite sport and how it benefits you or describing a favorite game you played as a child, apply these techniques to enhance your responses and boost your confidence in the IELTS Speaking test.