The road to sporting glory often leads through a winding path of triumphs and tribulations, a journey Moroccan steeplechaser Soufiane El Bakkali knows all too well.
As he reflects on the significant steps that have defined his career and his quest for gold at the Paris Olympic Games, El Bakkali’s story unfolds as a testament to perseverance, passion, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence.
Throughout his career, El Bakkali has graced numerous international events, each contributing to his evolution as an elite athlete. The latest feather in his cap came at the World Championships in Budapest, where he clinched the gold medal.
“This is what I am thankful for in my sporting career – winning the gold medal,” he says with a sense of pride.
This victory, his second world championship title, has imbued him with renewed confidence, propelling him towards his goal of becoming a two-time Olympic champion.
The path to such an ambitious goal is fraught with challenges, but El Bakkali is undeterred. “It is no easy feat, but nothing is impossible. As long as I am training and giving it my all.”
The journey, however, has not been without its setbacks. El Bakkali recounts a significant injury that served as a turning point in his career.
“Many things happen and change throughout the training period,” he explains.
“Especially this year, ahead of the Paris Olympics, there are things we wouldn’t wish for but that happen suddenly.”
One such incident was the injury that thwarted his plans to compete in the Diamond League in Doha. This injury, sustained during his final preparations, forced him to halt training for two months, a tough period for any athlete.
Yet, El Bakkali finds a silver lining in this adversity. “It made me take things more seriously, especially as I prepare for my next goal, which is the Olympic Games and retaining my title.”
Reflecting on the pivotal moments of his career, El Bakkali recalls the World Championships in London as his starting point.
“I started with the World Championships at a young age. I remember 2017, the World Championships in London, I was young and it was my first participation with world-class athletes and champions.”
At this event, competing in the 3000m steeplechase, he secured a silver medal, a remarkable feat for his debut on such a grand stage. This experience ignited his hunger for gold.
“From there, I was chasing a gold medal that I couldn’t quite get. But after the Tokyo Olympics, everything changed. My mindset fully shifted and I was only thinking about getting that gold medal.”
This relentless pursuit of excellence is fueled by rigorous training, meticulous preparation, and the unwavering support of his coach and team.
“That is another crucial aspect of why and how I was able to build this confidence that has allowed me, and will allow me, to succeed in big events like the Olympics and World Championships.”
As El Bakkali looks forward to his third consecutive Olympic Games in Paris, his excitement is palpable.
“I am very excited to take part in the Paris Olympic Games… It will be my third consecutive Olympics and I know there will be a lot of Moroccans, including my parents and close friends, who are eager to see me participate and even win a medal.”
This anticipation fuels his commitment to give his absolute best in Paris, aiming to win a gold medal dedicated to the people of Morocco, especially the King, who has been a steadfast supporter since the Tokyo Olympics. “God willing, I will dedicate my medal to him,” he pledges.
El Bakkali’s journey in the 3000m steeplechase is rich with memories, each adding to the tapestry of his career. He fondly recalls the World Championships in Eugene, where his victory was marked by a special celebration dance and a memorable group picture at the water jump.
Similarly, at the World Championships in Budapest, a cherished photo with Italian high jump champion Gianmarco Tamberi stands out. “This is what athletics is about. When we win, the most important thing for us is the spirit and the joy we share all together.”
As he prepares for the Paris Olympics, El Bakkali hopes to bring that same spirit and joy to his performances, perhaps with a new celebration dance to mark his achievements. His journey to sporting glory is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and indomitable spirit that defines a true champion.
