Polish ace eyes gold

Polish shot putter Konrad Bukowiecki is making no secret of his ambition to stand on the podium at the FISU World University Games in Chengdu.

Bukowiecki, the silver medalist at the 2019 European Athletics Championships, is one of the most experienced members of Poland's team at the event, which opens on Friday.

However, doubts remain over his fitness and conditioning — in May, the 26-year-old revealed that he had ruptured his knee ligaments several weeks earlier.

Bukowiecki is hopeful he still has enough in the tank to take his third medal of the World University Games, after he pocketed silver and gold in 2017 and 2019 respectively.

"I'm going to China with the intention of winning a third medal. I've been fighting with my health problems for the last six months, but I'm getting back in shape and I hope that my form will improve during the event. If nothing hurts, there should be a chance for a good result," Bukowiecki told Polish media on Monday.

The 31st FISU World University Games will be held in Chengdu from July 28 to Aug 8, and Bukowiecki is anticipating a "great experience".

"The World University Games is a really big event. You can compete with the best athletes and, what is more, I believe visiting China will be a great experience", the Pole added.

"I'm an experienced shot putter, so I'm focused on myself. I'm a better athlete than during the previous editions of the event. However, this is sport so anything can happen."

Xinhua