The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential figures, and athletes are a popular topic. In this guide, we’ll explore how to effectively answer the question “Describe An Athlete From Your Country Who Has Influenced You” for the IELTS Speaking exam. This topic has appeared in past tests and is likely to remain relevant in future exams.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about sports and athletes. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Sample Question 1: Do you enjoy watching sports?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy watching sports. I find it exciting to see athletes compete at high levels. My favorite sports to watch are football and basketball.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about watching sports. There’s something incredibly thrilling about witnessing athletes push their limits and showcase their skills. I’m particularly drawn to football and basketball for their dynamic nature and strategic elements.

Sample Question 2: Who is a popular athlete in your country?

Band 6-7 Answer:
In Vietnam, Nguyen Thi Anh Vien is a very popular swimmer. She has won many medals in international competitions and is well-known throughout the country.

Band 8-9 Answer:
One of the most prominent athletes in Vietnam is Nguyen Thi Anh Vien, a world-class swimmer. She has made waves in the international swimming community with her remarkable achievements, including multiple gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games. Her success has inspired a generation of young Vietnamese athletes to pursue their dreams in competitive sports.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing an influential athlete:

Describe an athlete from your country who has influenced you.

You should say:

• Who this athlete is
• What sport they play
• What achievements they have had
• And explain why this athlete has influenced you

Band 6-7 Sample Answer:

The athlete I want to talk about is Hoang Xuan Vinh, a Vietnamese shooter. He competes in pistol shooting events. Vinh’s biggest achievement was winning Vietnam’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics. He won the gold in the 10-meter air pistol event.

Vinh has influenced me because of his dedication and hard work. He started his career quite late, at the age of 41, but still managed to achieve great success. This shows me that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. His calm and focused attitude during competitions is also inspiring.

His success has made shooting more popular in Vietnam and has encouraged more people to take up the sport. I admire how he represents our country on the world stage and brings pride to Vietnamese people.

Band 8-9 Sample Answer:

I’d like to talk about Hoang Xuan Vinh, a remarkable shooter who has left an indelible mark on Vietnamese sports history. Vinh specializes in pistol shooting, particularly excelling in the 10-meter air pistol and 50-meter pistol events.

Vinh’s crowning achievement came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he clinched Vietnam’s first-ever Olympic gold medal. This historic victory in the 10-meter air pistol event was followed by a silver medal in the 50-meter pistol competition, cementing his status as one of Vietnam’s greatest athletes.

What truly sets Vinh apart and why he has profoundly influenced me is his extraordinary journey to success. Beginning his professional career at the relatively late age of 41, Vinh exemplifies the adage that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passion. His unwavering dedication and meticulous approach to his craft are truly awe-inspiring.

Vinh’s calm demeanor and laser-like focus under pressure are qualities I strive to emulate in my own life. His success has not only elevated the profile of shooting sports in Vietnam but has also ignited a spark of hope and ambition in countless young athletes.

Moreover, Vinh’s humble nature despite his monumental achievements is a testament to his character. He has single-handedly revolutionized the perception of niche sports in our country, proving that with determination and hard work, one can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

In essence, Hoang Xuan Vinh’s influence extends far beyond his athletic prowess. He has become a symbol of perseverance, a national hero, and a source of immense pride for all Vietnamese people. His journey continually reminds me that with passion and persistence, extraordinary feats are within reach, regardless of one’s starting point or the obstacles faced along the way.

Hoang Xuan Vinh – Vietnamese Shooter

Follow-up Questions

1. How has this athlete’s success affected sports in your country?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Vinh’s success has made shooting more popular in Vietnam. More people are interested in the sport now, and there’s more support for athletes in less mainstream sports.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Vinh’s groundbreaking success has had a transformative effect on sports in Vietnam, particularly shooting. His Olympic triumph has catapulted shooting from a niche activity to a respected and aspirational sport. We’ve seen a significant uptick in government funding and public interest in shooting, leading to improved facilities and training programs. Moreover, his achievements have sparked a broader conversation about supporting athletes in less mainstream sports, potentially paving the way for future success in diverse athletic fields.

2. Do you think athletes make good role models for young people?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think athletes can be good role models. They show the importance of hard work and discipline. Many athletes also do charity work and help their communities.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that athletes can serve as exemplary role models for young people. Their journeys often epitomize key virtues such as perseverance, discipline, and goal-setting. The dedication required to excel in sports can inspire young people to pursue excellence in their own endeavors. Furthermore, many athletes leverage their platform for philanthropic efforts, demonstrating social responsibility. However, it’s crucial to recognize that athletes are human and may have flaws. The key is to emulate their positive attributes while maintaining a balanced perspective on their public personas.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Question 1: How do you think sports contribute to a country’s national identity?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Sports can be important for national identity. When a country does well in international competitions, it makes people feel proud. Sports can also show a country’s culture and values.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Sports play a pivotal role in shaping a country’s national identity. Success on the international stage often fosters a sense of collective pride and unity among citizens. Moreover, the way a nation approaches sports can reflect its cultural values and societal norms. For instance, countries that excel in team sports might emphasize cooperation and collective effort in their culture. Additionally, traditional or indigenous sports can serve as a cultural ambassador, showcasing a nation’s unique heritage to the world. The emotional investment people have in their national teams can also strengthen social bonds and create a shared narrative that transcends other social divides.

Question 2: Do you think it’s important for countries to invest in sports development?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s important. Investing in sports can improve people’s health and bring international recognition. It can also provide opportunities for young people to develop their talents.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Investing in sports development is undeniably crucial for any nation. Firstly, it promotes public health by encouraging physical activity and fostering a culture of fitness. This can lead to long-term healthcare savings and improved quality of life for citizens. Secondly, sports success on the international stage can boost national morale and enhance a country’s soft power. Moreover, a robust sports infrastructure creates opportunities for talent development, potentially leading to economic benefits through professional sports and related industries. It also provides an alternative pathway for social mobility, especially for underprivileged youth. Lastly, sports programs can be powerful tools for social integration, promoting values like teamwork, fair play, and respect for diversity.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Indelible mark (adjective + noun): /ɪnˈdelɪbl mɑːrk/ – A lasting impression or effect that cannot be removed or forgotten.
   Example: “The athlete’s performance left an indelible mark on the history of the sport.”

2. To clinch (verb): /klɪntʃ/ – To secure or settle decisively.
   Example: “She clinched the gold medal with her final throw.”

3. Crowning achievement (noun phrase): /ˈkraʊnɪŋ əˈtʃiːvmənt/ – The greatest or most significant achievement.
   Example: “Winning the World Cup was the crowning achievement of his career.”

4. To exemplify (verb): /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/ – To be a perfect example of.
   Example: “His journey exemplifies the power of perseverance.”

5. Awe-inspiring (adjective): /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ – Causing feelings of awe or admiration.
   Example: “The athlete’s performance was truly awe-inspiring.”

6. To revolutionize (verb): /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ – To change something completely and fundamentally.
   Example: “His training methods revolutionized the sport.”

7. Pivotal role (noun phrase): /ˈpɪvətl roʊl/ – A very important or essential role.
   Example: “Sports play a pivotal role in promoting international understanding.”

8. To foster (verb): /ˈfɒstər/ – To encourage the development of something.
   Example: “Success in sports can foster a sense of national pride.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an influential athlete:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of athletes from different sports ready to discuss.

2. Practice fluency: Aim to speak continuously for 2-3 minutes in Part 2 without long pauses.

3. Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally in your responses.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain your thoughts and feelings about the athlete’s influence.

5. Show enthusiasm: Genuine interest in the topic can positively impact your score.

6. Address all points: In Part 2, ensure you cover all aspects mentioned in the cue card.

7. Be ready for abstract discussions: In Part 3, be prepared to discuss broader themes related to sports and society.

Remember, regular practice with a variety of topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.

For more tips on describing famous sports figures, you might find our guide on how to describe a famous sports figure from your country helpful. Additionally, if you’re interested in exploring related topics, check out our article on describing a sport you’ve only watched but would like to try.