Who is Simone Cerasuolo, champion of the 50 frog and first Italian gold swimmer at the Singapore World Cup

«Last night I called my father and he supported me, pushed me, telling me that if I was really strong I had to do it. My dream has always been to be able to shout to be world champion: I did it ». Simone Cerasuolo He is moved and moves with his first words after winning gold in the 50 frogs, the first of Italy in the tank at the Singapore World Cup and the first in this specialty.

The blue imposed itself in 26 “54 in front of the Russian Prigoda of eight cents and the Chinese Qin Haiyang. His name was not among those predicted on the eve, despite having entered the final with one of the best times.

22 years old, Imolese, was raised by Cesare Casella in the swimming pool that has always seen the presence of Fabio Scozzoli, one of the pillars of the blue frog. His victory in Singapore was born from a disappointment, the failure to qualify in Paris 2024, after great victories in the youth categories. “I became a solid athlete” He said immediately after the race. “I wanted to win a medal, but it was not obvious,” he explained to Sky Sport, “in the 50m Rana I proved to be very fast. In the final, however, he does not win the fastest, but the strongest. I became a solid athlete: I made some mistakes and there is a margin, but the important thing was to win. Errors? The departure was not the best, the last three strokes were a little wider. I tried to do the best possible ».

«I would like to see the face of my parents, who will be crying. The path was beautiful, my parents transmitted me humility and dedication to work. Today I am really in seventh heaven. My father tells me: strong men are seen in important moments and today I think I did it, “he explained to Raisport’s microphones. «I have a lot of thoughts, I am very happy. I wanted to thank all the people who help me on this path. In the 50 meters they do not always win those who are faster, but those who are stronger. And today I am world champion, “he added.

All races are visible on live TV in clear TV on the Rai Due channels, Raisport +HD and Sky Sport 1 and Sky Sport Mix. Batteries at 4 Italian (10 local), semifinals and finals at 13 Italians (19 in Singapore).