Champion athlete Marina Hadjicosta has responded to racist comments she received following her major international successes, saying she is proud to be Cypriot and will continue representing Cyprus with pride.
The young athlete spoke about her adoption, her biological roots in Poland and Nigeria, and the strong connection she has developed with Cyprus.
‘I am a proud Cypriot’
Hadjicosta said that while she may not have “Cypriot blood” in her veins, she feels and considers herself proudly Cypriot.
She recalled the emotion she felt when the Cypriot national anthem played after she won gold at the European U18 Championships in Italy.
She also spoke about her desire to make Cyprus proud at the World U20 Championships, where she went on to win a bronze medal.
Condemning racism in sport
The athlete condemned the racist comments directed at her and other athletes, including Milan Trajkovic.
She called on the state and relevant authorities to address discrimination and racism.
“How ‘Cypriot’ I am is shown by my results and my humanity,” she said.
Hadjicosta stressed that she will continue to represent Cyprus with pride despite the comments she has faced.
Also read: Tofalidis makes history as Cyprus’ first Commonwealth fencing champion
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