As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked by students how to answer questions about famous people, particularly sports stars, in the IELTS Speaking test. A question like “Which sport star do you like best?” might seem simple, but it requires a structured response that demonstrates your English skills.

Understanding the Question

This question aims to assess your ability to:

• Express preferences: Clearly stating who your favourite sports star is and why.
• Use vocabulary related to sports and admiration: Showing a range of vocabulary beyond basic terms.
• Provide extended answers: Giving reasons and examples to support your choice.

Structuring Your Response

Follow this simple structure to craft a strong answer:

1. Introduction: Briefly state your favourite sports star and their sport.
   • “My favourite sports star has to be Serena Williams, the legendary tennis player.”
2. Reason 1: Explain your first reason for liking this sportsperson.
   • “I’ve always been a huge fan of her incredible determination on the court. She never gives up!”
3. Reason 2: Provide a second reason, perhaps focusing on their personality or achievements.
   • “Beyond her athletic abilities, I admire her commitment to social justice and her work as a role model for young women.”
4. Example (optional): Give a specific example to illustrate your reasons.
   • “I remember watching her win the Australian Open while she was pregnant – it was simply inspiring!”
5. Conclusion: Summarize your points and reiterate your admiration.
   • “Overall, Serena Williams embodies the qualities of a true champion both on and off the court, which is why she’s my favourite.”

Serena Williams

Sample IELTS Speaking Question

Let’s look at how this structure works with a potential IELTS Speaking Part 1 question:

Examiner: “Who is your favourite sports star and why?”

Candidate: “My favourite sports star is Lionel Messi, the Argentinian footballer. I’ve been following his career since he was very young, and I’m constantly amazed by his extraordinary talent and skill. What I admire most about him is his humility; he’s always been a team player and seems genuinely grounded despite his global fame. For example, I remember watching a documentary about his early life and how he overcame obstacles to achieve his dreams – it was truly inspiring. He’s a true role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.”

Tips for Success

• Be Prepared: Think about a few sports stars you admire beforehand.
• Use Varied Vocabulary: Instead of repeating “good,” use synonyms like “exceptional,” “outstanding,” or “remarkable.”
• Don’t Memorize: While it’s good to have a structure, your answer should sound natural and spontaneous.
• Practice Regularly: Record yourself answering similar questions to build fluency and confidence.

Remember, the IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. By following these tips and structuring your response clearly, you can confidently express your admiration for your favourite sports star and impress the examiner.